Tissues

Tissues are groups of cells that come together to form specialized organs and structures in the body. They provide structural and functional support to the body and help to maintain homeostasis. They also play an important role in providing defense against infection and injury. There are four types of tissues—epithelial, muscular, connective, and nervous—each with its own unique set of functions. For example, epithelial tissues form the outer lining of organs and form the layer that covers the entire body, including the skin. Muscular tissues are responsible for contraction and relaxation to move organs and parts of the body. Connective tissues bind and support organs and tissues. Nervous tissues are essential in relaying and processing information throughout the body. Together, these tissues interact with each other to carry out the complex functions of the body.