Dense irregular connective tissue stretching forces from different directions. Dense irregular connective tissue also makes up submucosa of the digestive tract, fibrous capsules of joints and lymph nodes, and some types of fascia. Other examples include periosteum and perichondrium of bones, and the tunica albuginea of testis. In the submucosa layer, the fiber bundles course in varying planes allowing the organ to resist excessive stretching and distension. Dense irregular connective tissue Dense irregular connective tissue has fibers that are not arranged in parallel bundles as in dense regular connective tissue. Dense irregular connective tissue consists of mostly collagen fibers. It has less ground substance
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases regulate differentiation and regeneration of skeletal muscle. The ultimate goal of these studies is to provide a practical conceptual PDCTC framework. Laboratory of Oral Connective Tissue Biology—studies the molecular biology of dental-oral-craniofacial development, with a focus on teeth, gums and jaws. The aim of these studies is to understand cells and signals influencing tooth, bone, and periodontal ligament development. Laboratory of Skin Biology—studies the regulation of epidermal differentiation, skin barrier formation, and inflammatory responses associated with barrier dysfunction. A major focus is basic investigation of ectodermal appendage development and the study of human ectodermal dysplasias. Laboratory of Stem Cell Biology—studies