Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in the extracellular matrix (ECM)?

Accepted Answer

They attract positively charged ions, drawing water into the ECM and helping tissues resist compression.

Question 2

A patient presents with joint dislocations, long limbs, and aortic dilation. Genetic testing reveals a defect in the gene for fibrillin-1. Which tissue component is most directly affected?

Accepted Answer

Elastic fibers

Question 3

Which type of cell junction is most important in preventing the passage of macromolecules between adjacent epithelial cells in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Tight (occluding) junctions

Question 4

Which of the following best explains why simple squamous epithelium is found lining the air sacs of the lungs?

Accepted Answer

Its single layer of flat cells allows for rapid diffusion of gases.

Question 5

Which of the following is a key difference between exocrine and endocrine glands?

Accepted Answer

Exocrine glands release their products onto epithelial surfaces via ducts, while endocrine glands secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream.

Question 6

A biopsy of a patient’s tendon reveals parallel bundles of thick collagen fibers with few cells. Which type of connective tissue is this?

Accepted Answer

Dense regular collagenous connective tissue

Question 7

Which of the following best describes the main function of brown adipose tissue in infants?

Accepted Answer

Production of heat to maintain body temperature

Question 8

Which of the following statements about cartilage is correct?

Accepted Answer

Chondrocytes reside in lacunae within the ECM.

Question 9

A patient with osteoarthritis is considering glucosamine supplements. What is the hypothesized mechanism by which glucosamine might help?

Accepted Answer

It stimulates chondroblasts to produce more cartilage ECM components.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes the process of bone remodeling in response to mechanical stress?

Accepted Answer

Tension increases osteoblast activity, leading to bone deposition.

Question 11

Which of the following is a characteristic of cardiac muscle tissue?

Accepted Answer

Cells are branched, have a single nucleus, and are connected by intercalated discs.

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why neurons in the central nervous system generally do not regenerate after injury?

Accepted Answer

Neurons are amitotic and cannot divide to replace lost cells.

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the structure and function of serous membranes?

Accepted Answer

They consist of simple squamous epithelium (mesothelium) and loose connective tissue, and secrete serous fluid to reduce friction.

Question 14

Which of the following is true regarding tissue repair in the body?

Accepted Answer

Epithelial tissues typically regenerate, while cartilage often heals by fibrosis.

Question 15

A patient with a nonhealing wound is found to have poor arterial blood supply. Which factor is most likely contributing to the impaired tissue repair?

Accepted Answer

Inadequate blood flow to deliver nutrients and oxygen

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the main function of reticular fibers in connective tissue?

Accepted Answer

They form supportive networks that trap foreign cells and support soft tissues.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains why stratified squamous epithelium is found lining the esophagus?

Accepted Answer

It provides a thick, protective barrier against mechanical stress.

Question 18

Which of the following is a correct pairing of a cell type and its function in connective tissue?

Accepted Answer

Fibroblast – production of protein fibers and ground substance

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the difference between paracellular and transcellular transport across simple epithelia?

Accepted Answer

Paracellular transport occurs between cells, while transcellular transport involves substances passing through the cell membrane, cytosol, and exiting the other side.

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why vitamin C deficiency can impair tissue repair?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin C is required for fibroblasts to synthesize collagen, which is essential for tissue repair.

Chapter 4: Histology – Tissues and Their Functions

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