Anchoring fibrils extend from the basal lamina

Basal lamina

The basal lamina is a layer of extracellular matrix secreted by the epithelial cells, on which the epithelium sits. It is often confused with the basement membrane, and sometimes used inconsistently in the literature, see below....

 of epithelial cells and attach to the lamina reticularis (also known as the reticular lamina) by wrapping around the reticular fiber (collagen III) bundles. The basal lamina and lamina reticularis together make up the basement membrane

Basement membrane

The basement membrane is a thin sheet of fibers that underlies the epithelium, which lines the cavities and surfaces of organs including skin, or the endothelium, which lines the interior surface of blood vessels.- Composition :...

. Anchoring fibrils are essential to the functional integrity of the dermoepidermal junction.

Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica

Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica

Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica

Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica or Dystrophic EB is an inherited disease affecting the skin and other organs. "Butterfly children" is the term given to those born with the disease, as their skin is seen to be as delicate and fragile as that of a butterfly.-Causes:DEB is caused by genetic defects...

, also known as Dystrophic EB (DEB) is a chronic skin condition caused when anchoring fibrils are abnormal, diminished, or absent. This causes a weak dermoepidermal junction, where the epidermis easily separates from the dermis causing much pain. This condition is caused by a genetic defect coding for anchoring fibrils.

External links

• Skin Basement Membrane