EPITHELIAL CELL

MICHELLE KEMBOI
10TH OCTOBER, 2024
As I reflect on the second lecture, I will go into great detail regarding the types and
characteristics epithelial tissues. In this reflection, I will touch on pseudostratified columnar
epithelial cells, simple cuboidal cells, simple squamous cells, and simple columnar cells. Each
type is structurally and functionally unique, reflecting its unique function in the body. To begin,
let me explain what epithelial tissues are. These are the tissues that cover every surface of the
body, line hollow organs, and comprise most glandular tissues. These tissues carry out essential
tasks including protection, secretion, absorption, excretion, and filtration. I find their adaptability
remarkable. I am particularly intrigued by the attachment of epithelial tissues to the basement
membrane, a thin layer of non-living connective tissue that promotes diffusion and provides
support.
Epithelial tissues receive nutrients by diffusion from blood vessels in the underlying connective
tissue. Like a sandwich, the professor said, with the connective tissue and blood vessels on the
bottom, the basement membrane in the middle, and the epithelium on top. By arranging things in
this way, the epithelial cells will definitely get the nutrients they need to work well. It is
remarkable how quickly epithelial cells divide and repair damage. Because of their easy access
to nutrition and abundant blood flow, they are able to recover fast. Desmosomes, adherens
junctions, and tight junctions allow epithelial cells to form strong connections with one another,
allowing them to effectively form a barrier. In many cases, the lack of space between the cells
caused by these connections results in a watertight closure.
A single layer of flat, oval-shaped cells makes up the simplest type of epithelial tissue, which is
known as simple squamous epithelial cells. These cells, found on the basement membrane, play a
key role in diffusion. I find it incredible how their structure is well adapted to gas exchange,
which occurs in places like the lining of blood vessels and the alveoli of the lungs. Their flat, thin
form makes them ideal for transporting gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide. This tissue is
crucial in cases where there needs to be a rapid material exchange (Douglas & James, 2014). The
cells make a tight seal because their connections are so close together, leaving little room for air
to escape.
Cuboidal epithelium, consists of cells that are closer to shaped like cubes. The primary functions
of these cells are secretion and absorption, and they are typically found in organs such as the
pancreas, thyroid, and salivary glands as well as the liver. Even though cuboidal cells are thicker
than squamous cells, which limits the diffusion rate, I find their role in glands fascinating
because they secrete hormones and enzymes that the body needs to function. Cells of the simple
columnar epithelium are tall and rectangular in shape. They are often located in the intestines and
other sections of the digestive tract, and they are essential for food absorption and enzyme
secretion. I think it's great that these cells have two functions—they protect against
harsh digestive secretions and they help absorb nutrients (Douglas & James, 2014). This type of
columnar cell often has microvilli, which are little projections that look like fingers and increase
the surface area for absorption.
The cells of pseudostratified columnar epithelium touch the basement membrane, regardless of
their size or shape, even though the tissue looks stratified at first. The word "pseudostratified"
comes from my perception that this makes the tissue look like it has been artificially placed
(Ross., et al 2016). To clear airway obstructions, this type of epithelium—common in the
respiratory system—includes projections that look like hairs called cilia. I find this feature quite
fascinating. These cilia are composed of microtubules, about which we have just spoken.
Protecting respiratory health relies on their ability to filter out airborne pollutants like dust and
pollen.
Stratified epithelium is unlike any other type of epithelium because its protective layers are
composed of many layers of cells. Both keratinized and non-keratinized varieties exist within
this category. In the same way as the epidermis protects the skin from water and other
environmental hazards, keratinized tissue does same. The process of apoptosis causes cells to
migrate upward, fill up with keratin, and then die, forming the thick layer of protective skin.
According to Douglas and James (2014), this is a perfect example of how our bodies are
constantly repairing themselves in order to maintain protection. In contrast, areas like the oral
cavity, throat, and anal canal are lined with stratified squamous epithelium that is not keratinized
(Ross., et al 2016). These areas require tissue flexibility and moisture retention but do not require
protection. As a last type, transitional epithelium lines organs such as the bladder. The fact that
this particular tissue can expand and contract fascinates me. It is composed of multiple layers of
cells that, when stretched, flatten out and, when relaxed, take on a cuboidal shape. Because of
this, the bladder may expand and contract as needed, preventing pee from spilling into
surrounding tissues.
In conclusion, I have learned a lot about the different types of epithelial tissues in the human
body from this lecture. Understanding the unique functions of different epithelial types, such as
the simple squamous cells in the lungs has deepened my understanding of the mechanisms by
which the body controls its internal environment. After this lecture I can comfortably tackle any
question on the epithelial cells.
 References

Class Notes. (2024). Anatomy and physiology 171

Douglas, A. M., & James, L. E. (2014). Introduction to Human Anatomy and Physiology. 5th ed.
Elsevier.
Ross, M.H. and Pawlina, W. (2016). Histology: A Text and Atlas, 7e. Wolters Kluwer.