Skin and Cell Structure

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to skin and cell structure concepts.

Vacuole

An organelle that stores nutrients and waste products in a cell.

Ribosomes

Cellular structures that synthesize proteins by translating messenger RNA.

Nucleus

The control center of a cell that contains DNA and regulates gene expression.

Lysosome

An organelle that contains enzymes for breaking down waste materials and cellular debris.

Mitochondria

The powerhouse of the cell, producing energy in the form of ATP through respiration.

Cell Membrane

The semi-permeable membrane surrounding the cytoplasm of a cell.

Epithelial Tissue

A type of tissue that forms sheets lining body cavities and surfaces, such as skin.

Connective Tissue

Tissue that provides support, protection, and structure to other tissues and organs.

Muscular Tissue

Tissue responsible for movement, capable of contraction and relaxation.

Nervous Tissue

Tissue found in the brain, spinal cord, and nerves that transmits signals throughout the body.

Epidermis

The outermost layer of skin composed of epithelial tissue.

Dermis

The layer of skin beneath the epidermis that contains blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Subcutaneous Tissue

The deeper layer of skin made up of fat cells that provide insulation and cushion to the body.

Melanocytes

Cells in the epidermis that produce melanin, contributing to skin color and protection from UV radiation.

Desquamation

The process of shedding dead skin cells from the outer layer of the skin.

Natural Moisturising Factor (NMF)

A component that helps bind water to the skin, keeping it hydrated.

Stratum Corneum

The topmost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead, flat cells.

Basement Membrane

A thin membrane that separates the epidermis from the dermis, allowing nutrient exchange.

Papillary Layer

The upper layer of the dermis that forms ridges and contains lymph capillaries.

Reticular Layer

The deeper layer of the dermis made of dense connective tissue that provides strength to the skin.

Subcutaneous Layer

The layer beneath the dermis, consisting primarily of fat and connective tissue.