Final answer:
Connective tissue is characterized by the presence of an extracellular matrix, which consists of proteins like collagen and facilitates cell communication and structural support.
Step-by-step explanation:
Of the four main tissue types, connective tissue is characterized by extracellular material called matrix. This matrix is a vast extracellular matrix composed largely of proteins, particularly collagen. Connective tissue, which includes bone and blood, has cells that are surrounded by this non-living matrix, giving the tissue its structural and support functions.
It also allows cells to communicate with each other, as the matrix transmits signals from one cell to another, facilitating tissue coherence and signal transfer.Connective tissue is characterized by the presence of an extracellular matrix, which consists of proteins like collagen and facilitates cell communication and structural support.