Tunica albuginea
Tunica albuginea
Tunica albuginea (pronunciation: /tuːˈnɪkə ælbʊˈdʒɪniə/) is a dense layer of fibrous connective tissue that envelops certain organs in the body. The term is derived from the Latin words 'tunica' meaning 'coat' or 'covering', and 'albuginea' meaning 'whitish', referring to its pale appearance.
Anatomy
The tunica albuginea is found in several organs in the body, including the testes, ovaries, and the corpora cavernosa of the penis. In each of these organs, it serves a different function.
In the testes, the tunica albuginea forms a protective covering and aids in the creation of compartments known as lobules, which contain the seminiferous tubules where sperm production occurs.
In the ovaries, the tunica albuginea is located just beneath the germinal epithelium. It is thinner than its counterpart in the testes.
In the penis, the tunica albuginea surrounds the corpora cavernosa and plays a crucial role in maintaining an erection by trapping blood within the corpora cavernosa.
Related Terms
- Testes: Male reproductive organs where sperm is produced.
- Ovaries: Female reproductive organs that produce eggs.
- Corpora cavernosa: Two cylindrical tissues that run the length of the penis.
- Seminiferous tubules: Small tubes in the testes where sperm is produced.
- Germinal epithelium: A layer of simple squamous or cuboidal cells that cover the ovary.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tunica albuginea
- Wikipedia's article - Tunica albuginea
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