CONNECTIVE TISSUES:
Connective tissues are the most abundant and widely distributed of the major tissue types. These tissues vary in appearance and perform a wide variety of functions.
Primarily, connective tissues bind together, protect, and support other tissues.
The best way to distinguish connective tissues from other tissues is by the presence of an extracellular matrix. Matrix is a non-living material that is produced in the cells of connective tissues and then moved out of the cells (extruded). Matrix is responsible for the strength of connective tissues, and there is much variation in matrix types due to the many functions of connective tissues.