IMAGE

SHAPE

LOCATION

FUNCTION

Squamous. Single layer of flat cells with a centrally located nucleus.

They form the lining of cavities such as the mouth, blood vessels, heart and lungs and make up the outer layers of the skin.

They protect underlying tissue from mechanical injury and from excessive loss of water.

Cuboidal. Single layer of cube –shaped cells with a centrally located nucleus.

Cuboidal epithelium is found in glands and in the lining of the kidney tubules as well as in the ducts of the glands.

In glands, epithelial tissue is specialised to secrete specific chemical substances such as enzymes, hormones and lubricating fluids.

Columnar. Single layer of rectangular cells with the nucleus situated at the base of the cell.

Columnar epithelium forms the lining of the stomach and intestines.

In glands, epithelial tissue is specialised to secrete specific chemical substances such as enzymes, hormones and lubricating fluids.

Ciliated. Single layer of ciliated rectangular cells with the nucleus situated at the base of the cell.

Ciliated epithelium is usually found in the air passages like the nose. It is also found in the uterus and Fallopian tubes of females.

Ciliated epithelium assists in removing dust particles and foreign bodies which have entered the air passages. Also the movement of the cilia propel the ovum to the uterus.