Table of Contents
What does the mucous membranes consist of?
Mucous membranes are made up of epithelial cells that usually cover and protect underlying connective tissue, which is fibrous and elastic tissue built for supporting other structures of the body.
What are normal mucous membranes?
Summary. Mucous membranes are normal structures that line body cavities and organ surfaces. These tissues protect the structures that they line. In addition, they provide secretions to keep body structures moist.
What are the 6 mucous membranes?
Mucous membranes line many tracts and structures of the body, including the mouth, nose, eyelids, trachea (windpipe) and lungs, stomach and intestines, and the ureters, urethra, and urinary bladder.
Are eyes a mucous membrane?
eye anatomy The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the visible portion of the eyeball except the cornea (the transparent part of the eyeball that covers the iris and the pupil).
Are lips a mucous membrane?
The interior surface of the lips is lined with a moist mucous membrane. In newborn infants the inner surface is much thicker, with sebaceous glands and minute projections called papillae. These structural adaptations seem to aid the process of sucking.
Is mucous membrane epithelial or connective?
Mucous membranes are epithelial membranes that consist of epithelial tissue that is attached to an underlying loose connective tissue. These membranes, sometimes called mucosae, line the body cavities that open to the outside. The entire digestive tract is lined with mucous membranes.
Where are the mucous membranes?
The moist, inner lining of some organs and body cavities (such as the nose, mouth, lungs, and stomach).
What are mucous membranes do in your body?
Mucous membranes are made up of epithelial cells that usually covers and protects underlying connective tissue (fibrous and elastic tissue built for supporting other structures of the body). Because they are exposed to the outside world, mucous membranes are found in your ears, nose, and throat.
What is considered mucous membrane?
mucous membrane. n. A membrane lining all body passages that communicate with the air, such as the respiratory and alimentary tracts, and having cells and associated glands that secrete mucus. Also called mucosa.
Where are mucous membranes found?
The mucosa, also known as the mucous membrane, is a soft, moist and pink layer of cells that lines several passages and cavities of the body with openings exposed to the external environment. It is commonly found in the body’s digestive, respiratory, reproductive and urinary tracts.
What is the function of mucous membrane?
Functions of Mucous Membranes. In general, the functions of mucous membranes are to protect the body from being infected by viruses and bacteria and to keep the tissues of the body adequately moisturized. Specific mucous membranes have specialized functions.