In histology, cells are often categorized based on their tissue origin. The four primary tissue types are epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissue, each containing distinct cell types:
Epithelial Cells: These cells form protective barriers and are involved in absorption, secretion, and sensation. Examples include squamous, cuboidal, and columnar cells. Connective Tissue Cells: These cells support and connect other tissues. They include fibroblasts, adipocytes, and cells of the immune system. Muscle Cells: Specialized for contraction, muscle cells are categorized into skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle cells. Nerve Cells: Neurons and glial cells make up the nervous tissue, responsible for transmitting signals throughout the body.