Tissue structure & function Flashcards
Where are epithelial cells found?
They are found in the lining of organs and surfaces.
What is the function of epithelial cells?
They form barriers.
They play an important role in protection & absorption
What is the characteristic of an endothelium cell that increase absorption?
They consist of layers of thin cells- one layer thick
Where are columnar epithelial cells found?
The upper airways- trachea and bronchi
What are goblet cells and what do they do?
Columnar epithelium cells contain goblet cells that release mucus- this is used to moisten the airway and to trap pathogens.
Where are squamous epithelial cells found?
They are found in the alveoli
Describe squamous cells and how they are designed for their function.
One cell thick- quick diffusion pathway
Egg shaped nucleus - uses less space
What are cilia?
They are tiny hair like structures on the surface of the epithelial cells, they move back and forth to move surface mucus out of the lungs.
How Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD ) can be caused.
(What 2 damaged components can caused)
Damaged cilia
- Slowed movement
- Eventually die off
- Mucus build up, clogging airways.
- coughing that could rupture the alveolar epithelial cells, reducing surface area
- Good environment for pathogens to grow
Damaged alveoli could cause
- Breathing difficulties
- Increased diffusion distance
- Reduced surface area
- Swelling of alveoli
- Gaps in the lungs
- Alveoli loses elasticity
Where endothelial tissues are found?
They line the blood vessels
Function of endothelial tissues?
To provide a smooth surface for blood to flow easily.
Composition of blood vessels
Arteries- Outer layer of connective tissues. MIddle layer of thick smooth muscle- to maintain blood pressure. Inner layer is endothelial cells.
Veins- Outer layer of connective tissues- thicker to prevent collapse of blood vessel. Middle layer of smooth muscles. inner layer of endothelial cells.
Capillary- Just endothelial cells.
What is Atherosclerosis ?
The disease process that leads to coronary disease and strokes.
How can Atherosclerosis be caused?
and the impact
Fatty deposits (atheroma)
- Block an artery directly
- or increase its chance of being blocked by a blood clot
This causes
- Raised blood pressure
- Narrowing of arteries
- Damage to endothelial tissue lining
- Inflammation- white blood cells move into the artery wall
