Integument Flashcards
Which of the following layers of the skin is primarily responsible for the production of keratin?
Stratum granulosum
The stratum granulosum is where keratinocytes begin to produce large amounts of keratin, leading to the formation of a protective barrier.
Which of the following is NOT a function of the integumentary system?
Absorption of nutrients
The integumentary system does not absorb nutrients; its main functions include protection, temperature regulation, and sensory reception.
What type of gland is responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair?
Sebaceous gland
Sebaceous glands secrete sebum, which helps to keep the skin and hair lubricated and protected.
Which layer of the skin contains blood vessels, nerves, and hair follicles?
Dermis
The dermis is the layer of skin that contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and other structures.
What is the primary role of melanocytes in the skin?
To produce melanin, which protects against UV radiation
Melanocytes produce melanin, a pigment that helps protect the skin from damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation.
Describe the structure and function of the epidermis, and list the different layers found within it.
The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin, composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. Its main function is to provide a protective barrier against environmental damage. The layers of the epidermis, from deepest to most superficial, are the stratum basale, stratum spinosum, stratum granulosum, stratum lucidum (found in thick skin), and stratum corneum.
Explain the role of the arrector pili muscle in thermoregulation.
The arrector pili muscle is a small muscle attached to hair follicles. When it contracts, it causes the hair to stand up, a process known as piloerection. This action helps to trap a layer of air close to the skin, providing insulation and aiding in thermoregulation by retaining body heat.
What are the three types of hair found in animals, and how do they differ in function?
The three types of hair in animals are guard hairs, which provide a protective outer coat; wool hairs, which provide insulation; and tactile hairs
(vibrissae), which are sensory hairs found on the face and help animals detect
their surroundings.
Discuss the process of wound healing in the skin, including the stages involved.
Wound healing in the skin occurs in several stages: inflammation, where blood flow to the area increases to prevent infection; proliferation, where new tissue forms as cells divide; and remodeling, where the new tissue strengthens and matures. Each stage is crucial for restoring the integrity of the skin.
How does the integumentary system contribute to the immune defense of an animal?
The integumentary system acts as a first line of defense against pathogens by providing a physical barrier. It also contains immune cells such as Langerhans cells in the epidermis that help detect and fight off invading microbes.
