Week 1- Epithelial tissue

Question 1

Function of microvilli

Answer 1

• Increase the surface area of the cells contacting the small intestine lumen
• Increasing the surface area available for absorption

Question 2

Function of junctional complex

Answer 2

• Region near the apical domain
• Boundary between two epithelial cells
• Prevents the gut contents from penetrating between cells

Question 3

Function of cilia

Answer 3

Beat in a coordinated fashion, acting as a “ciliary escalator”
Constantly moving small particles and mucus (e.g. dust particles trapped in mucus) out of the respiratory tubes towards the back of the mouth for swallowing
Internal structure of microtubules within each cilium (9+2 arrangement) is the same as that found in sperm, flagella and in the cilia of even the most primitive protozoa

Question 4

Functions of epidermis:

Answer 4

1. Protection against abrasion
2. Protection against chemical attack
3. Forming a water-resistant boundary
4. Protecting underlying tissues from the harmful effects of UV light

Question 5

Primary functions of transitional epithelium in urinary system

Answer 5

• Protect underlying tissues from toxic components of urine

- permit substantial and frequent alterations in luminal volume