Good day, everyone! Here are my four illustrations of histological structures from the epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues. Furthermore, included also below are short descriptions for each tissue to guide us in knowing how they relate and function in our body systems. Thank you!

[1.] Epithelial Tissue: HUMAN SQUAMOUS EPITHELIUM
🔬 Objective/s Used: High-Power Objective (HPO)
📚 Description: According to BYJU’s (n.d.), the human squamous epithelium is epithelial cells distinguished by big, flattened shapes packed with cytoplasm and a nucleus located prominently. They perform critical functions in creating protective linings and facilitating effective exchange processes across diverse systems in the body. In addition, because their flat and irregularly spherical appearance resembles fish scales, the name “squamous” was derived from it (Knapp, 2021). In general, these cells are wider than tall, accentuating their flattened shape. As a result, human squamous epithelium cells are typically found on surfaces that need smooth fluid movement, such as blood arteries, as well as areas with a delicate barrier that allows molecular movement, such as the air sacs in the respiratory tract (BYJU’s, n.d.).

[2.] Connective Tissue: MUCOID TISSUE, SECTION
🔬 Objective/s Used: High-Power Objective (HPO)
📚 Description: There was little information given about mucoid tissue based on research. One of what I came across was an article from Histology Guide (n.d.) that defined mucoid tissue as a connective tissue also known as Wharton’s jelly. Mucoid tissue supports and protects several anatomical structures by supplying cushion and flexibility. Plus, it is mostly made up of a gel-like fluid containing hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate, with little collagen or reticular fibers (History Guide, n.d.). An example is in areas such as the umbilical cord. As a result, mucoid tissue’s nature makes it ideal for roles that require both protection and flexibility.

[3.] Muscle Tissue: STRIATED MUSCLE, C.S.
🔬 Objective/s Used: High-Power Objective (HPO)
📚 Description: Based on a published article by BYJU’s (n.d.), learning about striated muscles involves understanding how they are distinguished by their ability to contract and relax autonomously, as well as how they parallel muscles that contract simultaneously while keeping the potential for independent contractions. Within these muscles, separate longitudinal fibers may be seen. Furthermore, when examined under a microscope, a striated muscle is made up of myofibrils, which are elongated strands predominantly consisting of actin and myosin proteins that interweave helically (Biology Online, n.d.). Striated muscles can perform coordinated and accurate actions because of this anatomical arrangement. As a result, the interaction between actin and myosin produces a force that pulls on the fibers of a muscle cell, allowing it to contract.

[4.] Nervous Tissue: MAMMAL CEREBELLUM
🔬 Objective/s Used: High-Power Objective (HPO)
📚 Description: Named after the Latin for “little brain,” the cerebellum is a crucial brain region situated beneath the cerebral hemispheres and above the medulla oblongata in mammals (Britannica, 2024). Furthermore, its complex role includes combining sensory information with muscle responses, resulting in synchronized motion and equilibrium. The incorporation process involves obtaining nerve signals from the inner ear and muscular positioning sensors. As a result, the cerebellum coordinates exact changes in skeletal muscle contraction timing and amplitude, allowing for smooth, controlled motions while preserving posture (Cherry, 2023). Its complicated functions greatly improve motor control and general physical balance.

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Reference/s:

Biology Online. (n.d.). Striated Muscle. https://www.biologyonline.com/dictionary/striated-muscle
Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia (2024, February 5). cerebellum. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/cerebellum

BYJU’s. (n.d.). Squamous Epithelial Cells. https://byjus.com/neet/squamous-epithelial-cells/
BYJU’s. (n.d.). Understanding Striated Muscles in Biology. https://byjus.com/biology/striated-muscle/

Cherry, K. (2023, May 12). The Location and Function of the Cerebellum in the Brain. Very Well Mind. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-the-cerebellum-2794964

Histology Guide. (n.d.). Chapter 3: Connective Tissue. https://histologyguide.com/slideview/MHS-241-umbilical-cord/03-slide-1.html
Knapp, S. (2021, May 5). Squamous Cell. Biology Dictionary. https://biologydictionary.net/squamous-cell/