Layers
The layers of the basal lamina ("BL") and those of the basement membrane ("BM") are described below:
| Name | Part of BL? | Part of BM? | Notes |
| lamina lucida / lamina rara interna | yes | yes | electron-lucid layer containing the glycoprotein laminin |
| lamina densa | yes | yes | electron-dense layer composed of type IV collagen |
| lamina lucida / lamina rara externa | yes | yes | Similar composition to lamina rara interna. Some sources do not consider this a distinct layer. |
| lamina reticularis | no | yes | The three above layers of the basal lamina typically sit on top of the reticular lamina, which is synthesized by cells from the underlying connective tissue and contains fibronectin. The exception is when two epithelial layers abut one another as in the alveoli of the lungs and glomeruli of the kidneys, in which the basal lamina of one epithelial layer fuses with that of the other. |
Anchoring fibrils composed of type VII collagen extend from the basal lamina into the underlying reticular lamina and loop around collagen bundles. Although found beneath all basal laminae, they are especially numerous in stratified squamous cells of the skin.
These layers should not be confused with the lamina propria, which is found outside the basal lamina.
Read more about this topic: Basal Lamina
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