stroma

stroma /stro·ma/ (stro´mah) pl. stro´mata   [Gr.] the matrix or supporting tissue of an organ.stro´malstromat´ic

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stro·ma (strm)

n. pl. stro·ma·ta (-m-t)

1. The connective tissue framework of an organ, a gland, or other structure, as distinguished from the tissues performing the special function of the organ or part.

2. The spongy and colorless framework of a cell.

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stromal adj.

stro·matic (-mtk) adj.

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Stroma

A term used to describe the supportive tissue surrounding a particular structure. An example is that tissue which surrounds and supports the actually functional lung tissue.

Mentioned in: Pneumonia

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stroma

[strō′mə] pl. stromas, stromata

Etymology: Gk, covering

the supporting tissue or the matrix of an organ, as distinguished from its parenchyma. Some kinds of stromata are the vitreous stroma, which encloses the vitreous humor of the eye, and Rollet's stroma, which contains the hemoglobin of a red blood cell. stromatic, adj.

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stroma

pl. stromata [Gr.] the tissue forming the ground substance, framework, or matrix of an organ, as opposed to the functioning part or parenchyma, e.g. stroma iridis, stroma vitreum.