By measuring telomeres, some scientists believe they can determine biological age, which doesn't always equal chronological age. That means some people may be biologically older or younger than their age, said Jerry Shay, professor and vice chairman of cell biology at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas.
It is of ectodermal origin and is continuous with the skin at various body openings such as the eyes, ears, nose and mouth, the urethral opening and the anus. Some mucous membranes secrete mucus, a thick protective fluid. The function of the membrane is to stop pathogens and dirt from entering the body and to prevent bodily tissues from becoming dehydrated.
Mucous membrane. The mucous membranes (or mucosae; singular: mucosa) are linings of ectodermic origin, covered in epithelium, and are involved in absorption and secretion. They line various body cavities that are exposed to the external environment and internal organs. The sticky, thick fluid secreted by the mucous membranes and gland is termed mucus. The term 'mucous membrane' refers to where they are found in the body and not every mucous membrane secretes mucus.