Skip to main content
Back

Anatomy & Physiology: Tissues and Skin

Control buttons has been changed to "navigation" mode.
1/20

Terms in this set (20)

  • What are the four primary tissue types in the human body?

    Epithelial, connective, muscle, and nervous tissues.

  • What is the main function of epithelial tissue?

    To cover body surfaces, line cavities, and form glands for protection, absorption, and secretion.

  • Name three types of connective tissue.

    Loose connective tissue, dense connective tissue, and specialized connective tissue (like bone, cartilage, and blood).

  • What distinguishes muscle tissue from other tissue types?

    Its ability to contract and produce movement.

  • What is the primary role of nervous tissue?

    To transmit electrical signals for communication and control within the body.

  • What are the three layers of the skin?

    Epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis (subcutaneous layer).

  • What type of tissue primarily makes up the epidermis?

    Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.

  • What is the function of keratin in the skin?

    To provide a tough, protective, and waterproof barrier.

  • Name two cell types found in the epidermis besides keratinocytes.

    Melanocytes (produce pigment) and Langerhans cells (immune defense).

  • What is the dermis primarily composed of?

    Dense irregular connective tissue containing collagen and elastin fibers.

  • What structures are found in the dermis?

    Blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, sweat glands, and sebaceous glands.

  • What is the hypodermis composed of and its function?

    Mostly adipose tissue; it cushions, insulates, and stores energy.

  • What is the role of melanocytes in the skin?

    To produce melanin pigment that protects against UV radiation.

  • How does the skin contribute to temperature regulation?

    Through sweat production and blood vessel dilation or constriction in the dermis.

  • What is the process of keratinization?

    The maturation of keratinocytes as they move from the basal layer to the surface, becoming filled with keratin and dying.

  • Name the layers of the epidermis from deepest to most superficial.

    Stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum (only in thick skin), and stratum corneum.

  • What type of connective tissue fibers provide skin elasticity?

    Elastin fibers in the dermis.

  • What is the function of sebaceous glands?

    To secrete sebum, an oily substance that lubricates and waterproofs the skin and hair.

  • How do sweat glands help maintain homeostasis?

    By producing sweat that cools the body through evaporation.

  • What is the significance of the stratum basale?

    It contains stem cells that continuously divide to produce new keratinocytes.