FOR A PDF DOCUMENT OF THIS INFORMATION, CLICK: http://content.lib.auburn.edu/cdm/singleitem/collection/vetmed1/id/986- This PS represents a high magnification of the upper edge of the previous PS. The "e" represents DRCT whose major protein constituent is ELASTIN (the bright pinkish material). The "c" represents DRCT whose major protein constituent is COLLAGEN (the dull acidophilic material). NOTE: When using only the terms DRCT, DICT, or LCT the primary protein component is COLLAGEN, however when the primary protein is ELASTIN you must state that in your response. Therefore, the two tissues in the field of view are DRCT-ELASTIN (top half) and DRCT (bottom half). Note: When observing DRCT cut at any angle it will give the appearance of being irregular.
Some features of the various fibers found in CT.
A. The COLLAGEN fiber
1. This is the most abundant protein in the body
2. The dominant protein in dermis, bone, cartilage, and tendon
3. Occurs in all connective tissue of the body
4. Disintegrates forming a clear solution at 80-120? C (gelatin)
5. Shrinks at 65? C
6. Has two unusual amino acids - HYDROXYPROLINE (most unique type) and HYDROXYLYSINE
7. Special physical features
a. Slightly wavy, with no tension
b. Non-branching
c. Woven in a random pattern in skin and arranged parallel in a tendon.
d. Transparent in the cornea
e. 640 A periodicity
B. The ELASTIC fibers
1. A complex protein called elastin
2. Most resistant protein in the body
3. An unusual amino acid complex which forms a molecular structure called DESMOSINE. This is formed from 4 molecules of lysine.
4. Physical properties
a. Fibers branch and will stretch
b. Can also see as a round or a flat membrane with or without holes.
C. The RETICULAR fiber
1. DIFFER FROM COLLAGEN IN THAT THE RETICULAR FIBER IS PAS POSITIVE (STAIN FOR GLYCOPROTEINS) AND STAINS WITH A SILVER STAIN.
2. Similar to collagen in that the reticular fiber has the similar 640 A periodicity, has similar amino acid profile and digestible with collagenase.
3. Fibers are small, round, and tapering, and form a branching, anastomosing network.
4. Has 10 TIMES as much CARBOHYDRATE as COLLAGEN, otherwise similar amino acid make-up.
