Lamina propria of hard palate is formed by:

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The lamina propria of the hard palate is directly continuous with the periosteum of the underlying bone, providing a firm attachment. Loose areolar tissue is more typical in softer mucosal areas.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Gustatory cells are centrally located within the taste bud, surrounded by supporting cells, not peripheral.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The isthmus contains stem cells, surface epithelial cells, and parietal cells, but chief cells are found deeper in the gland body and base.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Parietal cells are rich in mitochondria for energy, not rER, which is more prominent in chief cells.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Ito (stellate) cells store vitamin A and contribute to fibrosis, but Kupffer cells, not Ito cells, are phagocytic.