Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of tight junctions in epithelial tissue?

Accepted Answer

They prevent water and solutes from passing between adjacent cells.

Question 2

A patient presents with a genetic defect that prevents the formation of connexons. Which tissue function would be most directly impaired?

Accepted Answer

Transmission of electrical impulses in cardiac muscle tissue

Question 3

Which of the following is a characteristic unique to pseudostratified columnar epithelium?

Accepted Answer

All cells contact the basement membrane, but not all reach the apical surface.

Question 4

Which type of connective tissue fiber is most abundant in tendons and provides great tensile strength?

Accepted Answer

Collagen fibers

Question 5

A biopsy of a tissue sample reveals cells in lacunae within a firm, avascular matrix rich in chondroitin sulfates. What type of tissue is this?

Accepted Answer

Cartilage

Question 6

Which of the following best explains why cartilage heals poorly after injury?

Accepted Answer

Cartilage is avascular, so nutrients and waste products must diffuse through the matrix.

Question 7

Which of the following statements about epithelial tissue is correct?

Accepted Answer

Epithelial tissue is avascular and relies on diffusion or absorption for nutrient supply.

Question 8

A tissue sample from the lining of the esophagus is examined. Which type of epithelium would you expect to find, and why?

Accepted Answer

Stratified squamous epithelium, because it resists abrasion from food passage.

Question 9

Which of the following best describes the function of fibroblasts in connective tissue proper?

Accepted Answer

They secrete hyaluronan and protein subunits that form collagen, reticular, and elastic fibers.

Question 10

A patient with a genetic disorder affecting the production of elastin would most likely have problems with which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Tissue flexibility and ability to return to original shape after stretching

Question 11

Which of the following is a function of areolar tissue?

Accepted Answer

Fills spaces between organs and supports epithelia

Question 12

Which of the following best explains why bone is highly resistant to shattering?

Accepted Answer

Bone matrix contains a combination of calcium salts and collagen fibers.

Question 13

Which of the following cell types is responsible for producing antibodies in connective tissue?

Accepted Answer

Plasma cells (derived from lymphocytes)

Question 14

A tissue sample is composed of long, multinucleate, striated cells that do not divide but can partially repair after injury. Which tissue is this?

Accepted Answer

Skeletal muscle tissue

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the function of neuroglia in nervous tissue?

Accepted Answer

They support, protect, and nourish neurons.

Question 16

Which of the following is a correct pairing of tissue type and its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Connective tissue: transports materials

Question 17

A patient has a mutation that prevents the formation of desmosomes. Which of the following symptoms would most likely be observed?

Accepted Answer

Fragile skin that blisters easily due to poor cell-to-cell adhesion

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the difference between endocrine and exocrine glands?

Accepted Answer

Endocrine glands secrete hormones into the bloodstream; exocrine glands secrete substances onto epithelial surfaces or into ducts.

Question 19

Which of the following best explains why the epidermis of the skin is composed of keratinized, stratified squamous epithelium?

Accepted Answer

To provide a tough, water-resistant barrier against mechanical stress and dehydration

Question 20

A patient with a deficiency in mast cell function would most likely have problems with which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Initiating inflammation after injury

Chapter 4: The Tissue Level of Organization – Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions