Epithelial Tissue Key Terms

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering characteristics, surfaces, cell junctions, classifications, and structures of epithelial tissue based on the lecture notes.

Epithelial Tissue

Tissue that provides protection and barriers, performs secretion and absorption, and covers or lines body structures such as the skin.

Cellularity

A characteristic of epithelial tissue in which cells are closely packed together.

Polarity

A characteristic of epithelial tissue where each layer has a different role.

Basement Membrane

A structure located between epithelial and connective tissue that acts as an anchor.

Avascular

Having no blood vessels; uses diffusion to obtain nutrients.

Regeneration

A characteristic of epithelial tissue featuring a high capacity to fix damaged cells.

Innervated

A characteristic of epithelial tissue that allows it to detect the environment.

Lateral Surface

The side of an epithelial cell that connects to neighbouring cells through cell junctions.

Apical Surface

The top of an epithelial cell that faces the lumen (outside).

Basal Surface

The base of an epithelial cell that attaches to the basement membrane.

Tight Junctions

Zipper-like seals that attach cells together, prevent protein mixing, and allow large molecules to pass.

Adhesive Junctions

Cell junctions that act like glue to support tight junctions, using microfilaments as glue.

Desmosomes

Strong, flexible cell junctions containing plaque that prevent stress.

Gap Junctions

Cell junctions that communicate with cells and allow atoms and small molecules to pass through using connexons.

Connexons

Protein chambers that facilitate communication in gap junctions.

Single Epithelial Layer

A single layer of cells ideal for absorption, diffusion, and secretion.

Stratified Epithelium

Epithelial tissue consisting of two or more layers, providing protection against friction.

Squamous Cells

Flat-shaped epithelial cells.

Cuboidal Cells

Cube-shaped epithelial cells.

Columnar Cells

Tall, column-shaped epithelial cells.

Pseudostratified Epithelium

Epithelium that appears to have multiple layers but is only one layer, with all cells attached to the basement membrane.

Transitional Epithelium

Epithelium that provides flexibility and changes shape with stretch.

Keratinized Stratified Squamous

Dead, protective epithelial layer found on places like the palm of the hand.

Nonkeratinized Stratified Squamous

Alive epithelial layer found in places like the inner esophagus that moderates friction.

Cilia

Tiny hairs that assist in movement.

Gobalt cells

Cells that secrete mucus to lubricate the lining of visceral organs.

Microvilli

Plasma membrane structures that increase surface area for absorption.