Basement Membrane

Question 1

What is a basememt membrane

Answer 1

Basement membranes are a dense, sheet-like form of extracellular matrix (ECM) that underlie epithelia and endothelia and separates from underlying connective tissue

Question 2

What are some functions of basement membrane

Answer 2

-anchors epithelium to underlying connective tissue by substrate adhesion molecules
-Provides structural support and polarity of cells
-acts as a mechanical barrier, prevents malignant cells from entering deeper tissue
- also essential for development of new blood vessels angiogenesis
- cell to cell interaction and migration

Question 3

What is goodpastures syndrome

Answer 3

An autoimmune disease that attacks the collagen type 4 and leads to bleeding in the lungs and kidneys

Question 4

What is alports syndrome

Answer 4

Affects the collagen fibres pf the basement membrane leading to kidney disease, hearing loss and eye abnormalities

Question 5

What is epidermolysis bulyosa

Answer 5

Results in fragile blistering skin