wiz-icon
MyQuestionIcon
MyQuestionIcon
1
You visited us 1 times! Enjoying our articles? Unlock Full Access!
Question

What is epithelial tissue? Give its characteristics and functions.


Open in App
Solution

Epithelial tissue is the simplest animal tissue which composed of one or more layer of cells. It is the protective tissue of animal body.

Characteristics of epithelial tissue:
(i) The cells of epithelial tissue are tightly packed and form continuous sheets.
(ii) Epithelial cells have cementing material between them and almost no intercellular space and have nucleus.
(iii) The cells of the lowermost layer rest on non-cellular basement membrane which separates it from the underlying connective tissue.

Epithelial tissue performs following functions:

  • They protects the underlying cells from drying, injury and chemical effects.
  • They form the lining of various internal organs to protect them.
  • Some cells have secretory functions.
  • They help in the removal of waste products.

flag
Suggest Corrections
thumbs-up
24
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
Join BYJU'S Learning Program
CrossIcon