What are the three main components of connective tissue?

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Collagenous fibers — connective tissue Randomly oriented collagenous fibers of varying size in a thin spread of loose areolar connective tissue (magnified about 370 ×).

Connective tissue is composed of three primary components:

Cells: These include stationary and migrating cells, such as fibroblasts, adipocytes, and various immune cells, which are responsible for producing and maintaining the tissue.123
Fibers: These extracellular fibers—specifically collagen, elastin, and reticular fibers—provide the tissue with necessary strength and flexibility.124
Ground substance: This is an amorphous, gel-like matrix that supports cells, cushions tissues, and facilitates the transport of nutrients and signaling molecules between cells and the blood.152

The relative proportions and arrangement of these three components vary throughout the body, determining the specific type and function of the connective tissue in any given location.2