Which tissue carries messages to and from the brain and controls bodily functions?

Nerve tissue is responsible for transmitting messages to and from the brain, which is crucial for controlling bodily functions. This type of tissue consists of neurons and glial cells, the main components that convey electrical signals throughout the body. Neurons are specialized for the reception, transmission, and processing of information, allowing for communication between the brain and various parts of the body.

Muscular tissue primarily functions in movement and maintaining posture, generating force through contraction, rather than in message transmission. Connective tissue supports, binds, and protects other tissues and organs but does not have a role in sending signals. Epithelial tissue forms the outer layer of the skin and lines various organs and cavities, serving a protective and absorptive function rather than participating in neural communication. Therefore, nerve tissue stands out as the only option that directly engages in the signaling necessary for bodily functions and brain communication.