Describe the structure and function of different types of epithelial tissues. Draw the diagram for each type of epithelial tissue.
Answer:
Epithelial tissues are of following types:
- Simple squamous epithelium
- Stratified squamous epithelium
- Columnar epithelium
- Cuboidal epithelium
- Simple squamous epithelium: They are present in cells lining blood vessels or lung alveoli where transportation of substances occurs through a selectively permeable surface, there is a simple flat kind of epithelium.
- Stratified squamous epithelium: Skin epithelial cells are arranged in many layers to prevent wear and tear. Since, they are arranged in a pattern of layers, the epithelium is called stratified squamous epithelium.
- Columnar epithelium: Where absorption and secretion occur, as in the inner lining of the intestine, these tall epithelial cells are present. This columnar epithelial facilitates movement across the epithelial barrier. In the respiratory tract, the columnar epithelial tissue also has cilia, which are hair-like projections on the outer surfaces of epithelial cells. These cilia can move and their movement pushes the mucus forward to clear it. This type of epithelium is thus ciliated columnar epithelium.
- Cuboidal epithelium: These form the lining of the kidney tubules and ducts of salivary glands where these provide mechanical support. Sometimes, a portion of the epithelial tissue folds inward and a multicellular gland is formed. This is glandular epithelium.