Question

What are the functions of areolar tissue?

Answer 1

Hint: Areolar tissue is a type of connective tissue found in the animal body. It is primarily found under the skin. It is made up of fibres, fibroblasts, macrophages and mast cells. The fibres are of three types- collagen, elastin and reticular fibres. The areolar connective tissue develops from the mesoderm. Areolar tissues are also found in mucous membranes, surrounding nerves, blood vessels and various body organs.

Complete answer:
Areolar tissue is present across the body, especially in organs with external openings. The most obvious of these systems is the skin which is entirely external. Thus, the areolar connective tissues are found below the dermis layer of the skin. Other systems with external openings in the body are the digestive system, respiratory system and urinary system. Here, the areolar tissue is located underneath the epithelial tissue.
The main functions of areolar tissue are to support the organs present in the abdominal cavity, filling the space between muscle fibres, wraps around blood and lymph vessels as a protective layer etc. They also help organs to resist stretching and tearing forces
The reticular fibres of areolar tissue provide structural support to the organs. The fibroblasts and collagen fibres, acts as a medium for oxygen and nutrients to diffuse from capillaries into the cells. Similarly, the carbon dioxide and waste substances from the cells diffuse out through these tissues back into circulation.
The fibroblasts also help in Tissue repair and strengthen the extracellular matrix. The mast cells trigger immune response by releasing substances like histamines, interleukins, and chemo attractants into its surroundings. Macrophages protect tissue from harmful pathogens and cell debris.

Note:
Areolar tissue is a type of loose connective tissue. When examined under a microscope these tissues have a characteristic mesh-like appearance due to its loosely dispersed protein fibres. The open spaces between the fibres are what give the tissue its name 'areolar connective tissues’. Due to its location in the body the areolar tissues are the site of many inflammatory and immune responses.