Stratified squamous epithelium
Stratified Squamous Epithelium
Stratified squamous epithelium (pronunciation: stra-ti-fied skwa-mous epi-the-li-um) is a type of epithelial tissue that is designed to protect against abrasion and friction. The term originates from the Latin stratum meaning 'layer', and squama meaning 'scale', referring to the layered, scale-like structure of this tissue.
Structure
Stratified squamous epithelium is composed of multiple layers of cells. The cells in the outermost layer are flat and scale-like, hence the term 'squamous'. The cells in the deeper layers are more cuboidal or columnar. This tissue is further classified into two types: keratinized and non-keratinized.
- Keratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium: This type of tissue contains a layer of dead cells at the surface that are filled with the protein keratin. This makes the tissue tough and water-resistant. It is found in areas of the body that are subject to a high degree of wear and tear, such as the skin.
- Non-Keratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium: This type of tissue does not have a layer of dead cells at the surface. It is found in areas of the body that need a protective but not waterproof layer, such as the mouth, esophagus, and vagina.
Function
The primary function of stratified squamous epithelium is to provide protection against physical and chemical wear and tear. The cells in the outer layer are constantly shed and replaced by new ones from the basal layer, ensuring that the tissue remains effective in its protective role.
Related Terms
- Epithelium
- Keratin
- Cell
- Keratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium
- Non-Keratinized Stratified Squamous Epithelium
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Stratified squamous epithelium
- Wikipedia's article - Stratified squamous epithelium
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