BIOD 151Pages7.2: Physiology of the Integumentary System: Repair!7.2: Physiology of the Integumentary System: RepairThe smallest unit of life is a cell. Cells come together to form!ssues.Tissuesare comprised of cells, which are similar in structure and func!on. Tissuesare comprised of cells andmatrix. Matrix is also calledextracellular material, made up of ground substance (extracellular fluid), protein, and collagenfibers. When the skin is damaged, both!ssue and matrix need to be repaired.Tissue RepairIn the case of!ssue damage, the body needs to respond quickly to prevent blood loss in and microorganisms from entering the bloodstream. Tissues,such as the skin, can be repaired by the body through a mul!-step process(Figure 7.10). Bloodplatelets(Figure 7.11)from the broken blood vessel startto accumulate in the area where the!ssue was damaged, forming aclot, secre!ng a mesh-like substance around it to prevent blood loss(Figure 7.11).Figure 7.10 Tissue damage: Skin is cut by a foreign object.Figure 7.10 Tissue damage: Skin is cut by a foreign object.Figure 7.11 Tissue repair:Figure 7.11 Tissue repair: Platelets gather in the broken blood vessel and form a clot.
