epithelial tissue Flashcards
What are the main functions of epithelial tissue?
Lines, covers, and protects the body; creates order; folds into cavities to protect deeper layers; regenerates quickly
What are the two main types of epithelium?
Proper/surface epithelium (covers the body) and glandular epithelium (forms glands)
What is the role of the basement membrane?
Anchors epithelial tissue to connective tissue
What are the three types of epithelial tissue based on shape?
Squamous (flat), Cuboidal (cube-shaped), Columnar (tall)
What are the two main ways epithelial tissues are classified?
By the number of cell layers and by cell shape
What are the two sides of epithelial cells?
Apical side (exposed to outside or internal cavity) and Basal side (attached to basement membrane)
What are the characteristics and function of squamous epithelial cells?
Flat, scale-like, allow for fast absorption, found lining blood vessels and air sacs in lungs
Where are simple cuboidal epithelial cells found, and what do they do?
Found in kidney tubules and glands; absorb nutrients and produce secretions
What is the function of simple columnar epithelial cells, and where are they found?
Cushion underlying tissues, involved in secretion and absorption; found in the intestines
What is pseudostratified columnar epithelium, and where is it found?
A single layer of cells with varying heights; may be ciliated; found lining the respiratory tract
What is the main characteristic of stratified squamous epithelium, and where is it found?
Multiple layers that regenerate quickly; found in the outer skin, mouth, anus, and vagina
What is the difference between proper and glandular epithelium?
Proper epithelium covers and lines the body, while glandular epithelium forms glands and secretes hormones
What is true about epithelial tissues?
they require blood supply from connecting tissues and all cells are polar
What does the primary epithelium do?
protects the whole body inside and out; partitions everything into separate but connected units
