Simple Epithelia
absorption, secretion, filtration
-single layer of cells

Simple Squamous Epithelium
Flattened laterally & cytoplasm is sparse
-thin and often permeable
-found where filtration is the priority
-endothelium- provides slick, friction reducing lining in the lymphatic vessels and in all hollow organs of the cardiovascular system
-mesothelium- found in serous membranes lining the ventral body cavity and covering it's organs

Simple Cuboidal Epithelium
-Single layer of cells as tall as they are wide
-Spherical nuclei
-Secretion & absorption
-forms walls of the smallest ducts and glands and of many kidney tubes

Simple Columnar Epithelium
-Single layer of tall closely packed cells
-lines the digestive tract from the stomach through the rectum
-absorption and secretion
-dense Microvilli
-goblet cells ("cups" if mucus")

Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium
-Vary in height and rest on the basement membrane
-only tallest reach the free surface if epithelium
-false impression of several layers
-secretes or absorbs
-dust trapping mucus

Types of Epithelium