What is an organ?

An organ is defined as a structure that consists of different types of tissues working together to perform specific functions within the body. This organization allows the various tissues, such as muscle, nerve, and connective tissues, to collaborate effectively in fulfilling complex bodily roles, such as circulation, digestion, and movement.

For example, the heart is an organ composed of muscle tissue (which contracts to pump blood), connective tissue (which supports the structure and helps hold it together), and nervous tissue (which regulates the heart rate). Each type of tissue contributes uniquely to the overall function of the organ, illustrating the importance of this cooperative interaction.

Understanding this concept is crucial, as it distinguishes an organ from other biological structures such as a single type of tissue, which would not encompass the complex interplay of functions that define an organ's role.