What are the three types of dense connective tissue proper, and how do their fiber arrangements and primary functions differ?
The three types of dense connective tissue proper are dense regular, dense irregular, and elastic connective tissue. Dense regular connective tissue has parallel collagen fibers, providing strength in one direction (found in tendons and ligaments). Dense irregular connective tissue has randomly arranged collagen fibers, offering strength in multiple directions (found in the dermis and around joints/organs). Elastic connective tissue contains mostly elastic fibers in a parallel arrangement, allowing tissues to stretch and return to shape (found in artery walls, respiratory pathways, and spinal ligaments).