Epithelial and Connective Tissues

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to epithelial and connective tissues, focusing on different types of epithelia and connective tissue functions and locations.

Simple Squamous Epithelium

A single layer of flattened cells with disc-shaped central nuclei, allowing materials to pass by diffusion and filtration.

Function of Simple Squamous Epithelium

Allows materials to pass by diffusion and filtration where protection is not important; secretes lubricating substances in serosae.

Locations of Simple Squamous Epithelium

Found in kidney glomeruli, air sacs of lungs, lining of heart, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, and serosae.

Simple Columnar Epithelium

Single layer of tall cells with round to oval nuclei; many cells bear microvilli and some bear cilia.

Function of Simple Columnar Epithelium

Absorption and secretion of mucus, enzymes, and other substances; ciliated type propels mucus by ciliary action.

Locations of Simple Columnar Epithelium

Lines most of the digestive tract, gallbladder, and excretory ducts of some glands; ciliated variety in small bronchi and uterine tubes.

Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium

Single layer of cells of differing heights; nuclei are seen at different levels and may contain mucus-secreting cells and cilia.

Function of Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium

Secretes substances, particularly mucus; propulsion of mucus by ciliary action.

Locations of Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium

Ciliated variety lines the trachea and upper respiratory tract; nonciliated type in males' sperm-carrying ducts.

Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium

Typically 2 cell layers thick; rare but found in some sweat and mammary glands.

Stratified Columnar Epithelium

Rare, found in pharynx, male urethra, and lining some glandular ducts.

Connective Tissue (CT)

A diverse group of tissues that develop from mesenchyme and contain an extracellular matrix.

Components of Connective Tissue

Composed of fibers, ground substance, and cells.

Types of Connective Tissue

Includes bone, blood, cartilage, and connective tissue proper (loose and dense connective tissue).

Ligaments

Connective tissues that connect bone to bone.

Cartilage

A connective tissue that provides support and flexibility between and on bones.

Tendons

Connective tissues that connect muscle to bone.