Basement membrane
Basement Membrane
The Basement Membrane (pronunciation: /ˈbeɪsmənt ˈmɛmbreɪn/) is a thin, fibrous, extracellular matrix of tissue that separates the lining of an internal or external body surface from underlying connective tissue in metazoans.
Etymology
The term "Basement Membrane" is derived from its location at the base of epithelial tissues, where it serves as a supportive foundation or "basement". The term "membrane" is from the Latin "membrana", meaning a thin layer or sheet.
Structure
The Basement Membrane is composed of two layers: the basal lamina and the reticular lamina. The basal lamina is produced by the epithelial cells and contains proteins such as laminin and collagen. The reticular lamina lies beneath the basal lamina and is secreted by the underlying connective tissue cells. It contains larger network-forming molecules such as fibronectin and type III collagen.
Function
The Basement Membrane serves several important functions. It provides physical support for the epithelium, separating it from underlying tissues. It also acts as a barrier to the passage of molecules and cells, and plays a role in cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and survival.
Related Terms
- Epithelium: The layer of cells that lines the cavities and surfaces of structures throughout the body.
- Extracellular Matrix: A three-dimensional network of extracellular macromolecules such as collagen, enzymes, and glycoproteins that provide structural and biochemical support to surrounding cells.
- Laminin: A family of proteins that are an integral part of the structural scaffolding in almost every tissue of an organism.
- Collagen: The most abundant protein in the animal kingdom, which forms the main component of connective tissues like tendons, ligaments, and skin.
- Fibronectin: A high-molecular weight glycoprotein of the extracellular matrix that binds to membrane-spanning receptor proteins called integrins.
- Type III Collagen: A type of collagen found in extensible connective tissues such as skin, lung, and the vascular system, frequently in association with type I collagen.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Basement membrane
- Wikipedia's article - Basement membrane
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