Epithelial Cells are Associated with a Noncellular Material Called A(n)

Question

Epithelial cells are associated with a noncellular material called a(n)
A) endocrine gland.
B) basement membrane.
C) muscle fiber.
D) fibroblast.
E) connective tissue.

Accepted Answer

The basement membrane is a thin, fibrous, extracellular matrix that separates the epithelium, the layer of cells covering the body surfaces and lining internal organs, from the underlying connective tissue. This noncellular material provides support and anchorage for epithelial cells, serves as a barrier against the spread of disease, and has a role in filtration in the kidneys, among other functions.