Epithelial tissue

Epithelial tissue

One of the four types of tissues in the body that acts as a covering and lining for organs and cavities.

Functions of epithelial tissue

Includes protection, filtration, absorption, secretion, excretion, and sensory reception.

Apical side

The part of epithelial cells that is exposed to the external or internal environment.

Basal side

The part of epithelial cells that is not exposed to the environment, typically anchored to the underlying basement membrane.

Basement membrane

A thin layer of connective tissue that supports epithelial tissue and separates it from underlying tissues.

Avascular

Characteristic of epithelial tissue meaning it does not have a direct blood supply.

Diffusion

The process by which substances like nutrients and oxygen move from the bloodstream to epithelial cells.

Lamina

Connective tissue layers that underlie the epithelial tissue, contributing to the basement membrane.

Sensory reception

The ability of epithelial tissue to receive sensory information from the environment through nerve endings.

Metastasis

The process by which cancerous cells can penetrate the basement membrane and spread to other parts of the body.