Epithelial Tissue Overview

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Questions and Answers

Which characteristic is NOT associated with epithelial tissue?

Lack of blood vessels
Contains abundant extracellular matrix (correct)
Covers exterior surfaces of the body
Forms secretory portions of glands

What is the primary function of the basal lamina in epithelial tissue?

Support structural integrity of the epithelium
Facilitate intercellular communication
Provide a nutrient supply through blood vessels
Anchor epithelial cells and act as a filtration barrier (correct)

Which of the following correctly describes the arrangement of epithelial cells?

Arranged in sheets with distinct surface domains (correct)
Arranged solely in three-dimensional structures without junctions
Formed in irregular clusters without a significant organization
Formed as single-layered cells only

Which feature distinguishes the apical surface domain of epithelial cells?

<p>It is free and exposed to the external environment or cavity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do junctional complexes play in epithelial tissue?

<p>Enable binding and communication between epithelial cells (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Epithelial Tissue: What is it?

Epithelial tissue is a type of tissue that covers the surfaces of the body, internal cavities, and forms glands.

Epithelial tissue: Avascular

Epithelial tissue is a type of tissue that lacks blood vessels.

Epithelial Cell Characteristics: Tightly packed cells

Epithelial cells are arranged in sheets and possess intercellular junctions, which are specialized connections providing structural integrity and communication.

Epithelial Cell Characteristics: Surface Domains

Epithelial cells have distinct surface domains, each with specialized functions. These include apical (free) surface facing the exterior, lateral surface interacting with neighboring cells, and basal surface connected to the underlying tissue.

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Epithelial Tissue: Basal Lamina

Epithelial tissue rests on a basal lamina, a non-cellular layer composed of proteins and polysaccharides, providing support and attachment.

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Study Notes

Epithelial Tissue

Forms a continuous sheet of cells
Lacks blood vessels (avascular)
Found covering exterior body surfaces
Lines internal closed cavities
Part of glands (secretory portion and ducts)
Component of sensory receptors

Epithelial Cell Characteristics

Arranged in sheets
Contains intercellular junctions (junctional complexes)
Exhibits distinct surface domains:
- Apical (free) surface
- Lateral surface
- Basal surface
Surface properties depend on specific membrane proteins
Rests on a basal lamina
- Non-cellular layer
- Protein-polysaccharide-rich layer