Lecture 4 - Epithelial Cells And Surface Specialisation

Question 1

What is a serous membrane?

Name 2 examples

Answer 1

• Thin 2 part membrane which line some closed cavities.
• The serous membranes secrete a lubricating fluid that promotes friction free movement.

2 examples:

• Pericardial sac = heart
• Peritoneum = liver, stomach, both intestines

Question 2

What are the different classifications of epithelial cells?

Answer 2

Simple/stratified: squamous, cuboidal, columnar

Psuedostratified columnar

Transitional

Question 3

Explain the structure and function of the basement membrane

Answer 3

Made predominantly of type 4 collagen.

Basement membrane provides structural support.

Question 4

Give examples of where simple squamous epithelial are found.

Give a reason for why they are found here

Answer 4

Bowman’s capsule
Serosa of lungs
Capillaries

Found in these places as they require a short diffusion pathway for efficiency.

Question 5

Give some functions of the SIMPLE CUBOIDAL epithelium.

Answer 5

Absorption and conduit - exocrine

Absorption and secretion - kidney tubules

Barrier - Ovary

Hormone synthesis and storage - thyroid

Question 6

Where are simple columnar located and what are their functions?

Answer 6

Stomach lining and gastric gland

Small intestine and large intestine

Function: Secretion

Absorption and lubrication (SI and LI)

Question 7

Where are PSEUDOSTRATIFIED epithelium located and what are some functions?

Answer 7

Lining of nasal cavity, trachea and bronchi

Functions: Secretion and conduit

Particle trapping and removal

Question 8

Locations of STRATIFIED SQUAMOUS NON-KERATINISED epithelium and functions.

Answer 8

Oral cavity
Oesophagus
Vagina

Functions: Protections against abrasion
Reducing water loss

Question 9

STRATIFIED SQUAMOUS KERATINISED, location and function.

Answer 9

Surface of skin

Protection against abrasion
Prevention of water loss
Prevention of microbial ingress
Shielding against UV light

Question 10

Where is TRANSITIONAL epithelium found?

Answer 10

Urinary tract

Question 11

Brief description of role of keratin:

Answer 11

Prevents water loss

Protects against abrasion

Question 12

Brief description of role of cilia:

Answer 12

Controls micro-movement of luminal contents

Question 13

Brief description of role of goblet cellsm

Answer 13

Mucus secretion - for moistening and lubricating

Question 14

Brief description of Clara cells:

Answer 14

Act as stem cells for respiratory epithelium.

Provide protection of bronchioles epithelium by secretion of uteroglobin and detox