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Epithelial Tissue Characteristics and Functions

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Terms in this set (20)

  • What are the primary functions of epithelial tissue?
    Protection, selective barrier, secretion, absorption, and filtration.
  • What structural characteristic allows epithelial tissue to perform diverse functions?
    Closely packed cells with cell junctions and polarity (different apical and basal surfaces).
  • Why is epithelial tissue avascular and what does this imply?
    Epithelial tissue has no blood vessels and must remain close to vascular connective tissue for nutrient and waste exchange.
  • What is the significance of high mitotic activity in epithelial tissue?
    Supports renewal and repair in tissues exposed to friction or damage.
  • What role does innervation play in epithelial tissue?
    Allows participation in sensation (touch, pain) and regulation of glandular secretion.
  • What are the two main categories of epithelial tissue?
    Covering/lining types and glandular types.
  • What are the types of cell junctions found in epithelial tissue?
    Tight junctions, desmosomes (cell-cell), and hemidesmosomes (cell-extracellular matrix).
  • How do tight junctions affect epithelial permeability?
    They prevent movement between cells, forcing substances to pass through cells for greater control.
  • What is epithelial cell polarity?
    Different regions of the same cell perform different functions: apical surface faces free space, basal surface attaches to connective tissue.
  • What special features can be found on the apical surface of epithelial cells?
    Microvilli (increase surface area) and cilia (move substances along the surface).
  • What is the basement membrane composed of?
    The basal lamina (proteins from epithelial cells) and reticular lamina (proteins from connective tissue).
  • What are the functions of the basement membrane?
    Anchors epithelium, acts as a diffusion barrier, regulates cell growth, and provides sites for molecular interaction.
  • Why must epithelial tissue remain thin?
    To allow efficient diffusion of nutrients and wastes from underlying vascular tissue.
  • What is the function of microvilli on epithelial cells?
    To increase surface area for absorption.
  • What is the function of cilia on epithelial cells?
    To move substances along the epithelial surface.
  • What is the role of desmosomes in epithelial tissue?
    Provide strong adhesion between cells to resist mechanical stress.
  • What is the role of hemidesmosomes?
    Anchor epithelial cells to the basement membrane.
  • How does epithelial tissue act as a selective barrier?
    Cell junctions and polarity control what substances can pass through or between cells.
  • What is the significance of the basal surface in epithelial cells?
    It is attached to the basement membrane and underlying connective tissue.
  • How do epithelial tissues participate in filtration?
    Provide a surface for pressure-mediated movement of substances.