Lamina basalis is a term used to describe a thin layer of tissue that separates two other tissues. The spelling of this word can be tricky, but using IPA phonetic transcription can help. The first syllable "la-" is pronounced as "la" with a short "a" sound. The second syllable "-mi-" is pronounced as "mee" with a long "e" sound. The third syllable "-na" is pronounced as "na" with a short "a" sound. Finally, the last two syllables "-ba-" and "-sa-" are pronounced as "ba" and "sa" respectively. So the pronunciation of lamina basalis is "la-mee-na ba-sa-lis."
Lamina basalis refers to a specific anatomical structure found in various tissues and organs throughout the body. It is a thin, sheet-like layer made up of connective tissue that primarily serves as a supportive framework for the adjacent structures.
In the context of the respiratory system, the lamina basalis is a layer of the basement membrane located beneath the respiratory epithelium in the bronchi and bronchioles. It provides structural integrity and acts as a barrier to the underlying tissue, separating the epithelial cells from the underlying smooth muscle.
In the eye, specifically in the retina, the lamina basalis is a layer located between the retinal pigment epithelium and the choroid. It helps maintain the structural arrangement of the retina by providing a rigid foundation for the retinal cells and assists in the exchange of nutrients and waste products between the retina and the choroid.
Similarly, in the reproductive system, the lamina basalis is present in the endometrial lining of the uterus. It is a layer of connective tissue located beneath the endometrial glands. During the menstrual cycle, the lamina basalis remains intact while the functional layer of the endometrium is shed, allowing it to regenerate and support the growth of a new functional layer.
Overall, the lamina basalis serves as a crucial structural element in various tissues and organs, providing support, separation, and maintaining the integrity of the adjacent cells and tissues.
Basal layer, 1. vitrea, Bruch's membrane, Henle's membrane, the transparent, nearly structureless inner layer of the chorioid in contact with the pigmented layer of the retina.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lamina basalis" has its roots in Latin.
- "Lamina" comes from the Latin word "lamina" which means "a thin plate, layer, or sheet".
- "Basalis" is derived from the Latin word "basalis" which means "pertaining to a base, basal".
In the context of anatomy and biology, the term "lamina basalis" refers to the basal lamina, a specialized extracellular matrix layer that lies beneath epithelial and endothelial cells.