Epithelial Tissue Types & Functions

Simple Squamous

single thin layer; filtration, diffusion, secretion

alveoli of lungs/walls of capillaries, linings of blood vessels/ventral body cavity

Simple Cuboidal

Single layer cube-shaped; secretion, absorption

Surface of ovaries, linings of kidney tubes, ducts and glands

Simple Columnar

Single layered column like cells some cillated; for protection secretion & absorption; Linings of uterus stomach, gallbladder and intestines

Stratified Squamous

Many layers of flattened cells; protects resists abrasion

epidermis of skin, oral cavity, esophagus

Stratified Cuboidal

multiple layers of cube like cells; protection/secretion

Linings of large glands and pancreas

Pseudostratified Columnar

single layer column like cells, appear to have multiple layers but DO NOT; movement of substances, linings of respiratory passages.

Transitional Epithelium

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

Glandular epithelium

specialized cells to produce and secrete substances

Stratified Columnar

Many layers of cells but only the surface cells are are columnar; deeper layers are cubodial shaped; male urethra and phyarynx

Basal Surface

The bottom layer of epithelial tissue that attaches to the basement membrane

Apical Surface

surface of an epithelial cell that faces away from the basement membrane

Keratinized stratified squamous

skin. top cells covered in layer of keratin. slough off by friction. serves as protection