Anatomy and Physiology
The types of membranes found in the body
A membrane consists of a sheet of epithelium tissue and an underlying mass of connective tissue.
There are two major types of membrane: mucous and serous.
Mucous membranes line the surfaces of passages that eventually exit the body (such as those in the respiratory system.) Mucous membranes provide support and protection.
Most mucous membranes have three layers:
Epithelium: This layer is close to the surface.
Lamina propia: Comprised of blood-rich connective tissue, this layer supports the epithelium.
Muscularis mucosae: Consists of multiple layers of smooth muscle.
Serous membranes are found in the lining of body cavities. These membranes also cover the surfaces of organs found within the ventral cavity. Serous membranes prevent provide lubrication to these internal surfaces, thereby preventing friction from occurring within the body during movements.