Definition of Tissue
திசுவின் வரையறை
Do not confuse 'tissue' with a mere collection of cells. A tumor is a mass of cells, but it lacks the functional organization of a tissue. In NEET, precision in definition is the difference between a correct answer and a negative mark.
The idea
A group of similar cells along with intercellular substances that perform a specific function is called a tissue. This organization allows for specialized tasks within a multicellular organism.
Why it matters
It exists to allow cells to specialize and work together efficiently, enabling complex life forms to function as a cohesive unit.
NEET lens
A tissue is defined as a group of similar cells, along with intercellular substances, performing a specific function. This structural organization is the fundamental basis for division of labor in multicellular organisms. Remember: similarity in origin and function is mandatory for the definition. This concept has appeared 3 times in NEET papers since 2015.
Introduction
A tissue is a group of cells that are similar in structure, origin, and function, working together to perform a specific activity.
Core concept
Key aspects: cells are similar (morphologically), have common origin (develop from same embryonic layer), function together. Types: Plant tissues — meristematic (dividing) and permanent (non-dividing). Animal tissues — epithelial, connective, muscular, neural.
Go deeper
Histology is the study of tissues. Unlike unicellular organisms where one cell does everything, multicellular organisms show division of labor — different tissues specialize in different functions, increasing efficiency.
From Class 10
You know cells are the basic unit of life. Many cells together form tissues. But what exactly is a tissue?