Lamina basalis

Lamina Basalis is the deepest layer of the basement membrane, a thin, fibrous, extracellular matrix of tissue that separates the lining of an internal or external body surface from underlying connective tissue in metazoans. The lamina basalis is primarily composed of type IV collagen, laminin, nidogen, and perlecan.

Structure

The lamina basalis is a dense layer of extracellular matrix that provides a supportive scaffold for cells, playing a crucial role in tissue and organ organization. It is composed of a network of type IV collagen, which forms a mesh-like structure that is interwoven with laminin, nidogen, and perlecan. These components interact to provide structural integrity and mediate a variety of cellular functions, including cell adhesion, migration, differentiation, and proliferation.

Function

The lamina basalis plays a critical role in maintaining the structural integrity of tissues and organs. It provides a supportive scaffold for cells, facilitating cell adhesion and migration. It also plays a role in cell differentiation, the process by which cells become specialized in order to perform specific functions. In addition, the lamina basalis is involved in cell proliferation, the process of cell growth and division.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the structure or function of the lamina basalis can lead to a variety of pathological conditions. For example, mutations in the genes encoding for the components of the lamina basalis can result in a group of rare genetic disorders known as basement membrane diseases, which include Alport syndrome, Goodpasture syndrome, and Epidermolysis bullosa. In addition, alterations in the lamina basalis have been implicated in the development and progression of several types of cancer.

See also

• Basement membrane
• Type IV collagen
• Laminin
• Nidogen
• Perlecan
• Alport syndrome
• Goodpasture syndrome
• Epidermolysis bullosa