Histology - Epithelial Tissues + Membranes

What is the basement membrane?

Connection between epithelial cells and underlying tissue

• “The stitching between material that holds the layers together”

• Made of 2 parts:

  • Basal Lamina (Top)

  • Reticular Lamina (Bottom)

What is the Basal Lamina?

Top level of the Basal Membrane

• connects to the epithelial cells

What is the Reticular Lamina?

Bottom layer of the Basal Membrane

• connects to tissue below the basement membrane

What are the 3 types of epithelial membranes?

Cutaneous

Mucous

Serous

What is the function of the Cutaneous Membrane and what is it made of? Examples?

Made of: Layer of stratified squamous cells

Function: Physical barrier to protect inside of body from outside environment

Example: Skin

What is the function of Mucous Membrane?

Function: Secrete Mucus for Lubrication/Protection

• contains mucins

• helps with stomach acids

Lamina Propria

What is the function and location of the Serous Membrane? Examples?

Function: secrete serous fluid to prevent abrasion

Location: Lines the outside of major organs

• Examples: Pericardium, Peritoneum, Pleura

Why are the synovial and basement membrane not considered epithelial tissue?

Not made of epithelia

• made of connective tissue

What are the sides of an epithelial cell called?

Basilar (basal) surface

Apical or Luminal Surface

Lateral Surface

Where is the Basilar/Basal surface of an epithelial cell?

bottom

Where is the Apical or Luminal Surface of an epithelial cell?

top

What is the Lateral Surface of an epithelial cell?

side

• place where it contacts another epithelial cell