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Definition

noun, plural: tissue fluids

A fluid that bathes and surrounds the cells of multicellular animals.

Supplement

It consists of amino acids, sugars, fatty acids, coenzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, salts, and waste materials from cells. However, its composition varies depending upon the exchanges between cells (of a tissue) and the blood. Physiologically, it functions in the interstitial transport of materials (e.g. nutrients) to the cells, intercellular communication, and removal of metabolic waste.

Together with plasma, lymph and transcellular fluid, the tissue fluid makes up the extracellular fluid.

Synonym: interstitial fluid or intercellular fluid.
See also: extracellular fluid.