Epithelial Tissues

These flashcards cover the key vocabulary terms and definitions related to epithelial tissues discussed in the lab session.

Epithelial Tissue

Tissue composed of closely packed cells that covers body surfaces, lines cavities and organs, and forms glands.

Avascularity

A characteristic of epithelial tissue where no blood vessels are present; nutrients are provided through diffusion.

Polarity

The presence of an apical surface that differs from the basal surface in epithelial cells.

Simple Epithelium

A type of epithelial tissue that consists of a single layer of cells, allowing for processes such as absorption and diffusion.

Stratified Epithelium

Epithelial tissue that contains multiple layers of cells, providing protection; found in areas subject to abrasion.

Squamous Cells

Flat and scale-like cells found in certain types of epithelial tissue.

Cuboidal Cells

Cube-shaped cells that are typically involved in secretion and absorption.

Columnar Cells

Tall, column-like cells that can be involved in absorption and secretion, often containing special cells like Goblet cells.

Pseudostratified Epithelium

A type of epithelial tissue that appears to have multiple layers because of differing cell heights but is actually a single layer.

Goblet Cells

Unicellular glands found in certain types of epithelial tissues that secrete mucus.

Stratified Squamous Epithelium

Epithelial tissue composed of several layers of cells that provides protection, found in the epidermis of the skin.