Stratified Epithelium

The stratified epithelium tissue consist of two or more layers of cells. An epithelium tissue consist of cells that form membranes, which cover and line the body surfaces and glands. The stratified epithelium tissue can be further classified in 4 types:
  • Stratified Squamous Epithelium
  • Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium
  • Stratified Columnar Epithelium
  • Transitional Epithelium
1) Stratified Squamous Epithelium:
Description: There are several layers of cells which are cuboidal to columnar in shape. The apical cells are squamous and basal cells are cuboidal or columnar.
Location: Forms superficial layer of skin (Keratinized form), lining of mouth, oesophagus, part of epiglottis and also covers the tongue.
Function: Protection (against microorganisms and water loss)


2) Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium:
Description: Several layer of cells in which the cells are cube shaped in both the apical surface and basal surface.
Location: Pancreatic duct, Sweat glands.
Function: Protection, absorption and secretion.


Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium

3) Stratified Columnar Epithelium:
Description: Layers of irregularly shaped cells. Apical layer have columnar cells.
Location: Urethra, Oesophageal glands and anal mucosa membrane.
Function: Protection and secretion.


Stratified Columnar Epithelium

4) Transitional Epithelium:
Description: The appearance of cells are different. Cells in the apical layer are squamous when stretched and cuboidal when relaxed.
Location: Urinary bladder
Function: Allows distension

Related Articles:











Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Molecules and their Interactions Relevant to Biology (PYQ's) (SET1)

Chapter 1. Heredity and Evolution

KINGDOM PROTISTA