What is the role of nervous tissue?

Nervous tissue is primarily responsible for transmitting signals throughout the body. This tissue is composed of neurons, which are specialized cells designed to receive, send, and process information in the form of electrical and chemical signals. These signals facilitate communication between different parts of the body, allowing for responses to stimuli, reflex actions, and coordination of bodily functions.

Understanding the role of nervous tissue is essential for grasping how the nervous system functions as a whole, influencing everything from muscle movement to sensory perception. The other options refer to different types of tissues: protecting organs is primarily the role of epithelial and connective tissues, storing fat is associated with adipose tissue, and providing support structures is the domain of connective tissues, such as bone and cartilage. Thus, recognizing the specific function of nervous tissue helps clarify its unique and vital role within the body.