Final answer:
The overlapping skin around the nail is called the cuticle, also known as the eponychium. It plays a crucial role in nail anatomy by sealing the nail edges and preventing infections. The nail matrix is where the nail growth originates, with stem cells producing keratinocytes. The correct option is 1) cuticle
Step-by-step explanation:
The loose and pliable overlapping skin around the nail is the cuticle. More specifically, it is also called the eponychium, a fold of epithelium that extends over the nail bed.
This structure plays a crucial role in nail anatomy by helping to seal the edges of the nail and prevent infections of the underlying tissues.
The nail bed itself is a specialized structure of the epidermis located beneath the nail plate. It is essential for supporting the nail body, which is the main keratinous plate that forms the actual nail.
The nail matrix, deep under the epidermis at the proximal end of the nail, is where nail growth occurs. It is home to stem cells that divide to produce keratinocytes, explaining how nails continually grow.