ABSTRACT
As has already been stated, all cellular elements of connective tissue (see section 1.4.1) are mesenchyme derivatives. Despite the structural and functional diversity of these cells, they can be divided into two major groups: 1) the proper cells of connective tissue, i.e. the synthesizing components of the intercellular matrix and constantly renewing it under physiological conditions and restoring it under reparative conditions; and
2) cells associated with connective tissue, for which the latter is a medium of their vital activities but are not directly involved in the formation of the intercellular (extracellular) matrix. In turn, every allocated group can be subdivided into several subgroups according to different features.
