Histology Certification Tissue Types 3

Question 1

A biopsy shows cells arranged in a single layer where all nuclei appear at different heights but all cells contact the basement membrane. This is:

Accepted Answer

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Answer

Pseudostratified epithelium has nuclei at varying levels giving a false stratified appearance, but every cell contacts the basement membrane.

Question 2

Which connective tissue cell is responsible for synthesizing the extracellular matrix components including collagen and ground substance?

Accepted Answer

Fibroblast

Answer

Fibroblasts are the primary cells of connective tissue proper, responsible for synthesizing collagen fibers and ground substance.

Question 3

Smooth muscle differs from skeletal muscle in that smooth muscle:

Accepted Answer

Lacks sarcomeres and is involuntary

Answer

Smooth muscle lacks the organized sarcomere structure of striated muscle, making it non-striated and under involuntary control.

Question 4

In nervous tissue, what is the role of astrocytes?

Accepted Answer

Form the blood-brain barrier and provide metabolic support to neurons

Answer

Astrocytes support neuronal function by maintaining the blood-brain barrier, regulating ion balance, and providing metabolic support.

Question 5

Which statement about elastic cartilage is TRUE?

Accepted Answer

It contains abundant elastic fibers giving flexibility

Answer

Elastic cartilage contains elastic fibers in addition to collagen, providing flexibility in structures like the epiglottis and auricle.

Histology Certification Practice Test