Body Membranes
Learning Objectives
- Identify the main types of tissue membranes
- Tissue Membranes
- Connective Tissue Membranes
- Epithelial Membranes
Tissue Membranes
Connective Tissue Membranes
Epithelial Membranes
A serous membrane is an epithelial membrane composed of mesodermally derived epithelium called the mesothelium that is supported by connective tissue. These membranes line cavities that do not open to the outside, and they cover the organs located within those cavities. Serous membranes have two layers: an outer layer that lines the body cavity call parietal and an inner layer that covers internal organs called visceral. Serous fluid secreted by the cells lubricates the membrane and reduces abrasion and friction between the two layers. Serous membranes are identified according locations. Three serous membranes line the thoracic cavity; the two pleura that cover the lungs and the pericardium that covers the heart. A fourth, the peritoneum, is the serous membrane in the abdominal cavity that covers abdominal organs and forms double sheets of mesenteries that suspend many of the digestive organs.
The skin is an epithelial membrane also called the cutaneous membrane. It is a stratified squamous epithelial membrane resting on top of connective tissue. The apical surface of this membrane is exposed to the external environment and is covered with dead, keratinized cells that help protect the body from desiccation and pathogens.
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