Biology Chapter 6 Vocab Flashcards

Apocrine Sweat Gland

• Located at the junction of the dermis and subcutaneous fat
• Composed of a coiled secretory portion and a straight portion that secretes into hair follicles

Arrector Pili

• Small muscles attached to hair follicles in mammals
• Causes hair to stand on end, resulting in goose bumps when contracted

Basement Membrane

• A delicate membrane made of protein fibers and glycosaminoglycans
• Separates epithelial tissue from underlying tissue layers

Dermal Papilla

• Small, nipple-like extensions of the dermis into the epidermis
• Play a role in enhancing the exchange of nutrients and waste between the dermis and epidermis

Dermis

• The thick layer of skin beneath the epidermis
• Provides structural support, elasticity, and houses blood vessels, nerves, and glands

Eccrine Sweat Gland

• Major sweat glands found all over human skin
• Responsible for thermoregulation through sweat secretion

Epidermis

• The outermost layer of cells covering the skin
• Provides a barrier against environmental agents and contributes to the skin's appearance

Follicle

• A small secretory cavity or sac, particularly referring to hair follicles
• Essential for hair growth and development

Freckle

• Small patches of light brown color on the skin
• Become more pronounced with sun exposure and are genetic in nature

Hypodermis

• Layer of cells beneath the dermis in certain organisms
• Often associated with fat storage and insulation

Keratin

• A fibrous protein that forms the structural basis of hair, nails, and skin
• Provides strength and resilience to these structures

Lanugo

• Fine, soft hair that covers the body of a human fetus or newborn
• Often shed shortly after birth

Meissner's Corpuscles

• Specialized tactile receptors in the skin
• Sensitive to light touch and located in areas such as fingertips

Melanin

• A dark brown to black pigment present in hair, skin, and eyes
• Plays a crucial role in protecting skin from UV radiation

Melanocyte

• Melanin-producing cells typically found in the skin
• Responsible for skin pigmentation and protection against UV damage

Pacinian Corpuscles

• A type of mechanoreceptor found in the skin
• Sensitive to pressure and vibrations

Papilla

• A small rounded protuberance found on various parts of the body
• In the context of the skin, contributes to the structure of hair follicles

Perspiration

• The bodily process of sweating
• Essential for thermoregulation and waste removal

Pigment Layer

• The layer of the epidermis containing melanocytes
• Responsible for skin color and pigmentation patterns

Pore

• Tiny openings in the skin’s surface
• Allow for the passage of gases, liquids, and particles

Sebaceous Gland

• Small glands in the skin that secrete sebum
• Help to lubricate and moisturize the skin and hair follicles

Sebum

• Oily secretion produced by sebaceous glands
• Serves as a natural moisturizer for skin and hair

Stratum

• Refers to layers of material or social classifications
• In skin anatomy, indicates specific layers such as the stratum germinativum

Stratum Germinativum

• The innermost layer of the epidermis
• Responsible for generating new skin cells through division

Integument

• Comprises skin, mucous membranes, hair, and nails
• Acts as a protective barrier and sensory interface with the environment