Question

Name the part of the nail bed that gives rise to new nail cells?

1) Epidermis
2) Matrix
3) Cuticle
4) Lunula

Answer 1

The part of the nail bed that gives rise to new nail cells is the nail matrix, which is the correct answer to the provided options.

Step-by-step explanation:

The part of the nail bed that gives rise to new nail cells is the nail matrix. The nail matrix is a deep layer of living epidermal tissue located at the proximal end of the nail, and it surrounds the nail root. It houses stem cells which divide to form keratinocytes, the cells responsible for producing keratin and forming the bulk of the nail plate. The growth occurs as these cells mature and push outwards, forming the visible part of the nail. The options provided are 1) Epidermis, 2) Matrix, 3) Cuticle, 4) Lunula. The correct answer is option 2) Matrix.

The lunula is the visible part of the matrix that appears as a crescent-shaped whitish area at the base of the nail. It should not be confused with the nail matrix itself. The nail cuticle, also known as the eponychium, is the fold of epithelium that extends over the nail bed and should not be mistaken for the nail matrix. Lastly, the epidermis is the outer layer of the skin but does not specifically refer to the area responsible for nail growth.