Simple Squamous Epithelium

• Single layer of flat cells– lines blood vessels (endothelium), closed body cavities

(mesothelium)– very thin --- controls diffusion, osmosis and filtration

What is the primary function of this tissue (protection or transport)? (Hint: What is its function as an endothelium,…as mesothelium?)

Examples of Simple Squamous Epithelium

• Section of intestine showing serosa

• Surface view of lining of peritoneal cavity

Is this endothelium, mesothelium, or neither?

Simple Cuboidal Epithelium

• Single layer of cube-shaped cells viewed from the side

Where would you find simple cuboidal epithelium in the body? Does it typically function in protection or transport in these locations?

Classification of Epithelial Tissues

Example of Simple Cuboidal Epithelium

• Sectional view of kidney tubulesWhy do some cells look as if they do not have a nucleus?

Nonciliated Simple Columnar

• Unicellular glands =goblet cells secrete mucus– lubricate GI, respiratory, reproductive and urinary systems

• Microvilli = fingerlike projections of cell membraneDescribe the differences between cilia and microvilli in terms of

both their structure and function. Are you likely to find them on the same tissue? Why or Why not?

Example: Nonciliated Simple Columnar Epithelium

• Section from small intestineThe term “brush border” is often used to describe

this tissue. What does it refer to?

Ciliated Simple Columnar Epithelium

• Single layer rectangular cells with cilia• Mucus from goblet cells moved along by cilia

Example Ciliated Simple Columnar Epithelium

• Section of uterine tubeWhat is another name for this organ?

Stratified Squamous Epithelium• Several cell layers thick• Surface cells flat• Keratinized = surface cells

dead and filled with keratin– Example…?

• Nonkeratinized = no keratin in moist, living cells at apical surface– Example …?

What is the primary function of this epithelium?

If this epithelium is a portion of a mucus membrane, where does the mucus come from?

Example of Stratified Squamous

• Section of vagina

Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium

• Multilayered• Surface cells cuboidal– rare (only found in

sweat gland ducts & male urethra)

Stratified Columnar Epithelium

• Multilayered• Surface cells columnar• Rare (very large ducts & part of male urethra)

• Multilayered • Surface cells varying in shape

from round to flat if stretched• Lines hollow organs of the urinary

tract that expand from within

Transitional Epithelium

List the expandable organs of the urinary tract.

Pseudostratified Columnar

Name one location where you would find this epithelium.

How would you describe its function?

• Single cell layer • All cells attach to

basement membrane but not all reach free surface

• Nuclei at varying depths