Functions of Epithelial Tissue
- Substance exchange: Epithelial tissue regulates the exchange of substances between the body and the external environment, as well as the exchange of substances within the body.
- Protection: It is the first line of defence against mechanical injury, chemical exposure, excessive fluid loss, and infections because it covers the entire body surface.
- The Secretion Procedure: The majority of epithelial cells can produce secretive macromolecules. The glandular epithelium is one of the best examples. Because the endocrine gland is secretive in nature, it secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream, some of which are insulin, thyroxin, and others. Exocrine glands, which are also secretive in nature, release hormones into ducts, such as skin sebum and digestive enzymes in the small intestine.
- Process of Absorption: Surface epithelial primarily perform absorption with the assistance of microvilli, which increase surface area for absorption. The columnar epithelium of the small intestine is another example. Their primary function in the digestive tract is nutrient absorption.
- Sensation: Sensory receptors are found in the epithelial tissue of the nose, eyes, and ears, as well as taste buds, and aid in the transmission of signals from external stimuli to the brain.
Epithelial Tissue
A structural organisation in animals begins with the smallest fundamental unit – the cell. Tissues are made up of a collection of cells that all serve the same purpose. When tissues join together to perform specific functions, organs form. All organisms in the animal kingdom are multicellular, but their cell organisation does not follow the same pattern.
Every cell in our bodies is trained to perform a specific function. A tissue is made up of similar types of cells that are classified based on their structure and functions. The human body is made up of four different types of tissue: epithelial, connective, neural, and muscular.