What anatomical aspect does Marfan's syndrome primarily affect?

Marfan's syndrome primarily affects connective tissue, which is a fundamental component of the body's structure and function. Connective tissues provide support, strength, and elasticity to various organs and systems. In individuals with Marfan's syndrome, there is a mutation in the FBN1 gene that codes for fibrillin-1, a protein that is essential for the formation and stability of elastic fibers in connective tissue.

The impact on connective tissue can lead to a range of complications, including cardiovascular issues such as aortic dilation or dissection, skeletal abnormalities like scoliosis or long limbs, and ocular problems such as lens dislocation. The systemic nature of the condition is due to the essential role of connective tissue in multiple organ systems, making it prominent in the clinical presentation of Marfan's syndrome.

This understanding underscores the importance of connective tissue in the pathology of Marfan's syndrome, distinguishing it from other options like muscle fibers or nervous tissue, which are not the primary affected structures in this genetic disorder.