Geweb

Geweb is not a standard term in English; it is closely related to the German word Gewebe, which means tissue. In biology, tissue refers to a group of cells with a shared structure and function, along with the extracellular matrix that binds them and supports their activity. Tissues organize into organs and, together with other tissues, form organ systems that sustain the organism.

There are four primary tissue types recognized in many animals: epithelial, connective, muscular, and nervous tissue. Epithelial tissue lines surfaces and cavities, forms barriers, and participates in absorption, secretion, and protection. Connective tissue provides structural support and connectivity; it includes bone, cartilage, blood, adipose tissue, and tendons. Muscular tissue is specialized for contraction and movement, encompassing skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle. Nervous tissue processes information and coordinates responses through electrical and chemical signaling.

A tissue’s behavior stems from its cells and the extracellular matrix, a noncellular scaffold of proteins and polysaccharides that influences stiffness, elasticity, and signaling. Developmentally, tissues arise from stem or progenitor cells and differentiate under genetic and environmental cues. Some tissues regenerate after injury, while others form scar tissue that may alter function.

In medicine, tissue structure is studied through histology and pathology. Biopsies of tissues enable diagnosis and guide treatment. Common human tissues include skin epithelium, connective tissues like bone and cartilage, skeletal and cardiac muscle, and neural tissue.