Form and Function

I'm not really able to duplicate my Venn diagram from class, but here is a list of the similarities and differences we came up with for ET and CT.

Similarities
Both include protection as one of their functions
Each has at least some origin in the mesoderm
Each has a nonliving component (basal lamina for ET, ground substance and fibers for CT)

Epithelial Tissue
Innervated
Avascular
Originates in all 3 embryonic layers
Functions: secretion, absorption, filtration, excretion, sensory reception
Cells are tightly packed and closely bound
Polar due to apical and basal surfaces
Highly regenerative

Connective Tissue
Only some types innervated
Varying degrees of vascularity
Originates entirely in the mesoderm (mesenchyme)
Functions: binding, support, insulation
Some cells are sparsely distributed and unbound
Non-polar
Highly, moderately, or poorly regenerative