Epithelium

Notes

Epithelium Pamela.B.Lugwisha(M.D, M.Sc. Anatomy) • Epithelium is one of the 4 basic types of tissues, the others being connective, muscular and nervous tissues. • A tissue is formed when a large number of functionally related cells that join together to perform and accomplish a certain/specific task in the body. • Cells found in a particular tissue have the same morphological and structural appearances. • Cells…tissues….organs…systems • Most organs are formed of all the 4 basic tissues, but their proportions varies from organ to organ • The epithelial tissue/epithelium is a group of closely associated cells with scanty intercellular materials that cover external and internal surfaces of the body. • Characteristics of epithelium: ❑Is made up of cells which appear in different shapes and structure ❑Generally no intercellular materials between the cells ❑The epithelial tissues are avascular ❑Epithelial cells form all glands(endocrine and exocrine) ❑In most places, epithelial cells are polarized(basement membrane). Basement membrane • Epithelial cells are attached to the underlying connective tissue known as the basement membrane. • The presence of the basement membrane allows the epit...