Matrix (nail)
Encyclopedia
The formative layer of cells
at the base of the fingernail
or toenail. This tissue consists of rapidly dividing skin cells that soon fill with the protein keratin
. The matrix of finger nails consists of the most rapidly dividing skin cells in the body, which grow four times faster than toenails at a rate of approximately 3mm a month.
Cell (biology)
The cell is the basic structural and functional unit of all known living organisms. It is the smallest unit of life that is classified as a living thing, and is often called the building block of life. The Alberts text discusses how the "cellular building blocks" move to shape developing embryos....
at the base of the fingernail
Nail (anatomy)
A nail is a horn-like envelope covering the dorsal aspect of the terminal phalanges of fingers and toes in humans, most non-human primates, and a few other mammals. Nails are similar to claws, which are found on numerous other animals....
or toenail. This tissue consists of rapidly dividing skin cells that soon fill with the protein keratin
Keratin
Keratin refers to a family of fibrous structural proteins. Keratin is the key of structural material making up the outer layer of human skin. It is also the key structural component of hair and nails...
. The matrix of finger nails consists of the most rapidly dividing skin cells in the body, which grow four times faster than toenails at a rate of approximately 3mm a month.
External links
- http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/nail+bed
- http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/matrix