Question

epithelium is connected to underlying connective tissue by
a reticular lamina.
proteoglycan.
interfacial canals.
a basement membrane.
keratin.

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze each option:

• A reticular lamina is part of the basement membrane, not the full connection structure.
• Proteoglycan is a component of the extracellular matrix but not the direct connector.
• Interfacial canals are not related to epithelial - connective tissue connection.
• The basement membrane (composed of basal lamina and reticular lamina) is the structure that connects epithelium to underlying connective tissue.
• Keratin is a protein in epithelial cells (like in skin) for protection, not for connection.

Answer:

D. a basement membrane.