Question

In some areas of the skin, the boundary between the dermis and epidermis is irregular. The wavy upward projections of the dermis are called __________.

A) Hair follicles
B) Sebaceous glands
C) Dermal papillae
D) Sweat glands

Answer 1

The wavy projections of the dermis interlocking with the epidermis are the dermal papillae, which contain capillaries and nerve endings, critical for nutrition, touch sensation, and creating fingerprints.

Step-by-step explanation:

The wavy upward projections of the dermis that create an irregular boundary with the epidermis are called dermal papillae. These papillae extend from the dermis up into the epidermis. The dermal papillae are significant because they contain capillaries that supply nutrients to the epidermis and sensorial nerve endings responsible for touch perception. They also create the epidermal ridges on our palms and soles, resulting in fingerprints. Unlike hair follicles and sebaceous glands that are associated with the production and growth of hair or sweat glands that are involved in perspiration, the dermal papillae play a critical role in the structural integrity and sensory function of the skin.