Glossary of terms used on this site

outermost embryonic germ layer from which the epidermis and the nervous tissue derive

type of cartilage, with elastin as the major protein, characterized by rigid support as well as elasticity

fibrous protein within connective tissue that contains a high percentage of the protein elastin that allows the fibers to stretch and return to original size

groups of cells that release chemical signals into the intercellular fluid to be picked up and transported to their target organs by blood

innermost embryonic germ layer from which most of the digestive system and lower respiratory system derive

tissue that lines vessels of the lymphatic and cardiovascular system, made up of a simple squamous epithelium

epithelium attached to a layer of connective tissue

type of tissue that serves primarily as a covering or lining of body parts, protecting the body; it also functions in absorption, transport, and secretion

group of epithelial cells that secrete substances through ducts that open to the skin or to internal body surfaces that lead to the exterior of the body