Epithelial Tissues Quiz

Epithelial Tissue Functions

• The primary function of stratified squamous epithelium is to protect against mechanical and chemical stresses.
• Nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium is commonly found in the lining of the oral cavity, esophagus, and vagina.

Characteristics of Keratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium

• The superficial layer of the skin lined by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium is distinguished by the presence of dead, keratinized cells that provide a barrier against external stress.

Epithelial Cell Junctions

• Adherens junctions in epithelial cells facilitate cell-to-cell adhesion and maintain tissue integrity.
• Desmosomes in epithelial cells provide strong mechanical adhesion between cells, resisting external forces.
• The basal surface of epithelial cells adheres to the underlying basement membrane.
• Gap junctions in epithelial tissues enable direct cell-to-cell communication and exchange of ions and small molecules.

Stratified Squamous Epithelium

• The function of stratified squamous epithelium is to provide a barrier against mechanical and chemical stresses.
• Stratified squamous epithelium is found in the skin, oral cavity, esophagus, and vagina.
• The arrangement of cells in stratified squamous epithelium is layered, with basal cells differentiating into squamous cells as they move towards the surface.
• In the oral cavity, the primary function of stratified squamous epithelium is to protect against mechanical stress and abrasion from chewing and swallowing.