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Structure of Skin in Human
Epidermis
The epidermis is composed of the outermost layers of the skin. It forms a protective barrier over the body's surface, responsible for keeping water in the body and preventing pathogens from entering.The epidermis also helps the skin regulate body temperature. Basement membrane The epidermis and dermis are separated by a thin sheet of fibers called the basement membrane. The basement membrane controls the traffic of the cells and molecules between the dermis and epidermis. Dermis The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain. The dermis provides tensile strength and elasticity to the skin.. The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis through a basement membrane and is structurally divided into two areas: a superficial area adjacent to the epidermis. Hypodermis The hypodermis is not part of the skin, and lies below the dermis. Its purpose is to attach the skin to underlying bone and muscle as well as supplying it with blood vessels and nerves. It consists of loose connective tissue and elastin. Fat serves as padding and insulation for the body. Another name for the hypodermis is the subcutaneous tissue. |
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