Microscopic Study of Musculoskeletal and Skin Tissues
Microscopic Study of Musculoskeletal and Skin Tissues
Histology, also referred to as microscopic anatomy, is a branch of biology focused on the examination of biological tissues at the microscopic level. It complements gross anatomy, which studies larger structures not visible without magnification. Although it can be divided into organology (organ study), histology (tissue study), and cytology (cell study), contemporary practice encompasses all these areas within histology. The skeleton comprises specialized connective tissues, including bone and cartilage, both composed of cells and extracellular matrix. The distinctive properties of bone and cartilage primarily arise from their respective matrix compositions. Bone's rigidity and strength stem from mineralized matrix, rendering it brittle, while cartilage's firm yet flexible nature originates from its non-mineralized, gel-like matrix.