Quick Facts
The lamina propria is the connective tissue coat of a mucous membrane just deep to the epithelium and basement membrane (Dorland, 2011).
Structure and/or Key Features
The lamina propria is a loose connective areolar tissue layer forming a deeper part of the mucosal layer of the oral mucosa. It serves as a protective barrier, as well as providing immune cells when needed.
Function
The lamina propria houses a rich supply of immune cells in response to the desquamation of superficial epithelial apoptotic or necrotic cells. It also serves a mechanical protective function by its service as a barrier, preventing internal tissue access of external pathogens and microorganisms.
References
Dorland, W. (2011) Dorland's Illustrated Medical Dictionary. 32nd edn. Philadelphia, USA: Elsevier Saunders.
Anatomical Relations
The lamina propria is situated deep to the basement membrane of the olfactory epithelium, separating it from the cribriform plate of the ethmoid bone.
Clinical Correlates
—Anosmia
