Which fiber type provides flexibility and shape retention after stretching?

Study for your anatomy test with Netter's Anatomy Practice Test. Utilize questions and illustrated guides to master human anatomy and ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which fiber type provides flexibility and shape retention after stretching?

Explanation:
Elastic fibers give tissues their stretchiness and the ability to snap back to shape after being stretched. They contain elastin, which can extend and recoil, supported by microfibrils that add strength. This combination lets structures like skin, lungs, and arterial walls stretch and then return to their original form, providing both flexibility and shape retention. Reticular fibers form a delicate supportive mesh in organs and tissues, mainly for framework rather than elasticity. Lymphocytes are immune cells, not fibers, so they don’t contribute to tissue stretch or recoil. Myofibroblasts are contractile cells involved in wound contraction and scar formation; they can tighten the matrix, not provide elastic recoil.

Elastic fibers give tissues their stretchiness and the ability to snap back to shape after being stretched. They contain elastin, which can extend and recoil, supported by microfibrils that add strength. This combination lets structures like skin, lungs, and arterial walls stretch and then return to their original form, providing both flexibility and shape retention.

Reticular fibers form a delicate supportive mesh in organs and tissues, mainly for framework rather than elasticity. Lymphocytes are immune cells, not fibers, so they don’t contribute to tissue stretch or recoil. Myofibroblasts are contractile cells involved in wound contraction and scar formation; they can tighten the matrix, not provide elastic recoil.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy