Term of the Day

Marfan's Syndrome: Genetic disorder of connective tissue. Abnormal connective tissue results from a defect in the protein fibrillin, which helps provide scaffolding and structural support between cells. Signs and symptoms include: excessive height, abnormally loose joints, long spiderlike fingers, poor vision, and a weakened heart and blood vessels due to inadequate connective tissue reinforcement. The trait is dominant and carried by the FBN1 gene. For you punk rockers out there, Joey Ramone was diagnosed with Marfan's.

Term of the Day

Proteoglycans: A component of the ground substance of connective tissue. They consist of a protein core, to which negatively charged polysaccharides called glycosaminoglycans (CAGs) are attached. The CAGs form an intertwining network that traps water and forms a substance that varies from a viscous fluid to a semisolid gel. The higher the CAG content, the stiffer the ground substance is. Chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate, and hyalouronic acid are three of the most prominent glycosaminoglycans.

Term of the Day

Mesenchyme (Mesenchymal Tissue): In embryology, the first true tissue formed from the mesoderm germ layer. It is a type of connective tissue composed of star-shaped mesenchymal cells surrounded by a matrix of fluid ground substance containing fine fibers. Mesenchyme eventually differentiates into all other connective tissues.