Biological system: Difference between revisions

The integumentary system is a biological system composed primarily of the skin, but also accessories that grow out of the skin (i.e. hair, scales, and nails). The skin is a vital organ that covers the entire outside of the body, forming a protective barrier against pathogens and injuries from the environment. The skin is the body's largest organ; covering the entire outside of the body, it is about 2 mm thick and weighs approximately six pounds. It shields the body against heat, light, injury, and infection. The skin also helps regulate body temperature, gathers sensory information from the environment, stores [[water]], fat, and vitamin D, and plays a role in the [[immune system]] protecting us from [[disease]].<ref>[http://training.seer.cancer.gov/ss_module14_melanoma/unit02_sec01_anatomy.html Anatomy of the Skin] by the U.S. Cancer Institute</ref>