Learn: Epithelial Tissue Identification

Simple squamous epithelium

single layer of thin and flattened cells; found in air sacs in lungs, lining of blood vessels

simple cuboidal epithelium

Single layer of cube shaped cells. Found in kidney tubules, ovaries, and ducts of certain glands.

simple columnar epithelium

single layer of elongated, rectangular shaped cells; found in surface lining of stomach and intestines.

pseudostratified columnar

odd shaped elongated, rectangular cells that each come into contact with the basement membrane; may contain cilia. Found in the cells of the respiratory system.

stratified squamous epithelium

layers of thin and flattened cells; found in surface of skin and upper digestive tract lining (mouth, esophagus)

transitional epithelium

Multiple layers of cells which appear cuboidal when not stretched, but squamous when stretched; found in the urinary organs

simple squamous epithelium (diagram)

stratified squamous (diagram)

simple cuboidal (diagram)

simple columnar (diagram)

pseudostratified ciliated columnar (diagram)

transitional epithelium (diagram)

epithelial tissue

Sheets of cells that covers the surfaces of the body, line internal cavities, and form certain glands.

avascular tissue

characteristic of epithelial tissue; no blood vessels connected to it

basement membrane

the basal lamina connected to underlying connective tissue; located below layers of epithelial cells

endocrine glands

release hormones; have no ducts or contact to the exterior of the body. ex: pituitary, thyroid, and adrenals.

exocrine glands

produce secretions; open to exterior of body through ducts. ex: sweat and oil

serous glands

produce watery secretions

mucous glands

secrete mucins