Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in connective tissue?

Accepted Answer

It provides tensile strength, directs cell placement, regulates cell survival, and holds cells in position.

Question 2

A tissue sample from the trachea shows a single layer of cells with nuclei at different heights and cilia on the apical surface. Which type of epithelium is this?

Accepted Answer

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Question 3

Which of the following cell junctions is most important for preventing the passage of macromolecules between adjacent epithelial cells?

Accepted Answer

Tight (occluding) junctions

Question 4

A patient with a genetic defect in collagen synthesis would most likely have problems with which of the following ECM components?

Accepted Answer

Collagen fibers

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

It allows for rapid diffusion of gases due to its thin, flat structure.

Question 6

Which type of gland releases its product by exocytosis without damaging the cell?

Accepted Answer

Merocrine gland

Question 7

A biopsy of a patient’s skin reveals a thick, multi-layered epithelium with dead, keratin-filled cells at the surface. What is the most likely identity of this tissue?

Accepted Answer

Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium

Question 8

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

Accepted Answer

They form a supportive meshwork that traps foreign cells and supports soft tissues.

Question 9

A patient with chronic acid reflux develops a change in the esophageal lining from nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium to simple columnar epithelium. This process is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Metaplasia

Question 10

Which of the following connective tissues is specialized for energy storage, insulation, and shock absorption?

Accepted Answer

Adipose tissue

Question 11

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

Accepted Answer

Cartilage is avascular and relies on diffusion for nutrient delivery.

Question 12

Which of the following is a function of the basement membrane in epithelial tissues?

Accepted Answer

It anchors the epithelium to underlying connective tissue and provides structural support.

Question 13

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

Accepted Answer

Exocrine glands secrete their products into ducts; endocrine glands secrete directly into the blood.

Question 14

A tissue sample from the aorta shows parallel bundles of elastic fibers with some collagen fibers. Which type of connective tissue is this?

Accepted Answer

Dense regular elastic connective tissue

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the process of fibrosis during tissue repair?

Accepted Answer

Fibroblasts produce collagen to fill in the defect, resulting in scar tissue.

Question 16

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

Accepted Answer

It is striated, branched, and contains intercalated discs.

Question 17

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 18

A patient presents with a tumor that originated in the epithelial tissue of the skin. What is the most accurate term for this type of cancer?

Accepted Answer

Carcinoma

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the function of goblet cells in epithelial tissue?

Accepted Answer

They secrete mucus to lubricate and protect surfaces.

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, a key component of tissue repair.

Histology: Structure and Function of Tissues

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