Mucous Membranes
Mucous membranes line all body cavities that open to the exterior body surface. They are moist membranes, adapted for absorption or secretion. The type of epithelial cells depends on the location. For example, the mouth & esophagus mucous membranes are made of stratified squamous epithelium to maximize protection while the rest of the digestive tract mucous membranes are made of simple columnar epithelium to maximize absorption & secretion. Like all epithelial tissues, mucous membranes rely on an underlying layer tissue for blood supply.
Serous Membranes
The surface of serous membranes or serosa consists of a layer of simple squamous epithelium. Deep to that layer is a connective layer of areolar tissue. Serous membranes line the open body cavities that are closed to the exterior of the body. All serous membranes occur in pairs, separated by serous fluid. The visceral layer covered the outside of the organ being protected while the parietal layer lines the wall of the body cavity. Examples of these are found in the peritoneum, pleura, and the pericardium.
Cutaneous Membranes
The cutaneous membrane makes up the skin, our first line of defense. It is the outermost protective boundary for the body. The superficial epidermis is composed of keratinized stratified squamous epithelium. The underlying dermis is mostly dense connective tissues and houses the accessories to the skin like blood vessels, glands and nerves.
Synovial Membranes
Synovial membrane is made of only connective tissue. It lines the fibrous capsules surrounding moveable joints. It provides protection and support. It is also specialized to secrete a lubricating fluid (synoivial fluid) to protect joints as well.