The tissue microenvironment of an organ.
It serves as the connective tissue microenvironment and includes fibroblasts, immune defense cells, lymphocytes, macrophages and fat cells, blood vessels, nerves, ducts,
Stroma is made of various types of stromal cells depending upon its location.
Examples of stroma include:
Stromal connective tissue function is to secure the parenchymal tissue, including blood vessels and nerves of the stroma, and to construct organs and spread mechanical tension to reduce localized stress.
Stromal tissue is primarily made of extracellular matrix containing connective tissue cells.
This extracellular matrix is primarily composed of ground substance, which is a porous, hydrated gel, made mainly from proteoglycan aggregates and connective tissue fibers.
There are three types of fibers commonly found within the stroma: collagen type I, elastic, and reticular orcollagen type III) fibers.
Loose connective tissue is mainly located under the epithelial membranes and glandular epithelium, attaching the epithelia to other tissues.
Supports the blood vessels and nerves supplied to the epithelium.
It serves as the main site of inflammatory response within the body.
Plays a major role in tumorigenesis.