Respiratory system - Histology

Tracheal cartilage

prevents the trachea from flattening

Respiratory epithelium

protect and effectively clear the airways and lungs of inhaled pathogens and irritants

Tracheal glands

Secretes mucous that creates a sticky layer to trap dust, allergens, pollen, microorganisms.

Mucous cells

Secrete mucous

Bronchus

A large airway that leads from the trachea (windpipe) to a lung

Hyaline cartilage

prevents airways from collapsing during breathing

Bronchiole

deliver oxygen-rich air to the alveoli and remove carbon dioxide during exhalation

MALT

detect, trap, and neutralize inhaled pathogens

respiratory epithelium (pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium)

filtering, trapping, and clearing inhaled pathogens and debris

alveolus

to perform gas exchange

alveolar epithelium (simple squamous epithelium)

Rapid gas exchange