Question

"In epithelial tissues, what serves to anchor the epithelial tissue to underlying connective tissue?"

Answer 1

Answer:

Basement membrane.

Explanation:

The epithelial tissue is characterized by the presence of cells very close to each other, with little intercellular substance. It is an avascular tissue, which rests on a basement membrane. This membrane separates it from the underlying connective tissue, which allows the nutrition of the epithelium.

The basement membrane, formed by glycoproteins (collagen, fibronectin, laminin) and glycosaminoglycans, has the function of separating the epithelium from its connective tissue, supporting the epithelium, and allowing the diffusion of nutrients to it.  Membrane specializations allow an epithelium, secretor or lining to fulfill its functions more effectively. Basal specializations, such as the semidesmosome, allow anchoring of the epithelium to the basement membrane and to the underlying connective tissue.

Answer 2

Answer:

Basement membrane

Explanation:

Epithelial tissues is one of the four types of tissues. They are widespread throughout the body and form the covering of all body surfaces, line body cavities and hollow organs, and are the major tissue in glands .

They perform a lot of functions such as absorption, excretion, filtration, diffusion, and sensory reception.

They are anchored to the underlying connective tissue by basement membrane. A thin, fibrous, extracellular matrix of tissue.

The basement membrane acts as a mechanical barrier that prevents malignant cells from invading the deeper tissues.