These variations can manifest in several ways: - Cell Shape and Size: Different cell types have unique shapes and sizes that relate to their function. For example, red blood cells are biconcave to increase surface area for oxygen transport. - Organizational Patterns: Tissues can exhibit different organizational patterns, such as the layered arrangement of cells in epithelial tissue or the fibrous arrangement in connective tissue. - Extracellular Matrix Composition: The composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) varies between tissues, affecting properties like elasticity and strength. For instance, the ECM in cartilage contains more proteoglycans, providing resilience and shock absorption.
