8 Epithelial Types

8 Epithelial Types

Functions In General

• Varied functions of epithelial types include:

  • Stratified: Protective role

  • Squamous: Involved in diffusion or protection

  • Cuboidal/Columnar: Primarily focused on absorption and/or secretion

Simple Squamous (Single Layer Cells)

• Functions:

  • Rapid transport/diffusion

  • Secretion of serous fluids

• Locations:

  • Lungs (alveoli)

  • Some kidney tubules

  • Lining of some blood vessels

  • Serous membranes

Simple Cuboidal (Single Layer Cuboid Shaped Cells)

• Functions:

  • Absorption

  • Secretion

• Locations:

  • Glands

  • Most kidney tubules

  • Bronchioles

  • Liver

Simple Columnar (Single Column Shaped Cells)

• Functions:

  • Absorption

  • Secretion

  • Movement

• Locations:

  • Digestive tract lining

  • Some kidney tubules

  • Uterus

Pseudostratified Columnar

• Characteristics: Appears stratified but is a single layer of columnar cells

• Functions:

  • Secretion and movement of mucus

• Locations:

  • Respiratory tract

  • Portion of male urethra (contains cilia)

Stratified Squamous (Multiple Layers of Flat Thin Cells)

• Functions:

  • Resist abrasion and friction

  • Protection against pathogens

• Locations:

  • Skin

  • Esophagus

  • Vagina

  • Anal canal

Stratified Cuboidal

• Functions:

  • Secretion with an extra layer providing protection

• Locations:

  • Large glands (e.g. sweat glands)

  • Ovaries

  • Testes

Stratified Columnar

• Characteristics: Rare in the body

• Locations:

  • Male urethra

Urothelium (Transitional Epithelium)

• Functions:

  • Stretches/dilates

  • Protects from urine

• Locations:

  • Part of kidney

  • Ureter

  • Bladder

  • Portion of urethra