KERATOGENOUS MEMBRANE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "keratogenous membrane" refers to a delicate layer of tissue found at the base of a person's nails and hair follicles. This specialized membrane is responsible for the production and growth of keratin, a tough and fibrous protein that forms the structural component of hair, nails, and the outer layer of human skin.
The keratogenous membrane is located at the matrix, which is the area positioned under the nail plate and cuticle. It contains specialized cells known as matrix cells, which are responsible for the continuous generation of new nail cells. These cells undergo a process called keratinization, whereby they produce and harden keratin, leading to the development of the nail plate.
Similarly, in hair follicles, the keratogenous membrane produces keratin to form the hair shaft. This membrane actively produces cells that undergo keratinization, resulting in the elongation of the hair strand.
In addition to its role in nail and hair growth, the keratogenous membrane also acts as a protective barrier for the nail bed and hair follicle. It shields them from external damage, infections, and harmful substances, ensuring their proper development and health.
Overall, the keratogenous membrane is a crucial component of the body's integumentary system, as it is directly involved in the production and maintenance of hair and nails, providing strength, protection, and structure to these important body parts.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for KERATOGENOUS MEMBRANE
- jeratogenous membrane
- meratogenous membrane
- leratogenous membrane
- oeratogenous membrane
- ieratogenous membrane
- kwratogenous membrane
- ksratogenous membrane
- kdratogenous membrane
- krratogenous membrane
- k4ratogenous membrane
- k3ratogenous membrane
- keeatogenous membrane
- kedatogenous membrane
- kefatogenous membrane
- ketatogenous membrane
- ke5atogenous membrane
- ke4atogenous membrane
- kerztogenous membrane
- kerstogenous membrane
- kerwtogenous membrane
Etymology of KERATOGENOUS MEMBRANE
The word "keratogenous" is derived from two Greek terms: "keras" meaning horn, and "genesis" meaning creation or formation. "Keratogenous" is often used to describe something that produces or forms keratin, a tough protein found in the outer layers of the skin, hair, nails, and horns of animals.
The word "membrane" comes from the Latin word "membrana" which means skin or thin layer. It refers to a thin, pliable layer of tissue that covers or lines a structure within an organism.
So, when combined, "keratogenous membrane" refers to a thin layer of tissue that generates or produces keratin. This term is often used in biology and anatomy to describe structures that produce keratin, such as certain epithelial tissues that give rise to hair or the outer layer of the skin.
