[Growth and aging of connective tissue]

The organs and organ systems of neonates usually show a differently advanced development of connective tissue. This must be considered when determining the change caused by ageing in specific connective tissue structures, especially if it is desired to establish relations between structure, function and time. In those organs which assume important functions during or immediately after birth the connective tissue components are more highly developed than in those which, after birth, are not subject to full functional strains. This particular phenomenon has been demonstrated by specific examples.