Cuboidal epithelium
Cuboidal Epithelium
Cuboidal epithelium (pronounced: kyu-boi-dal epi-thee-lee-um) is a type of epithelial tissue that resembles a cube in shape. The term "cuboidal" is derived from the Latin word "cubus," meaning cube, and the Greek word "epithelion," meaning covering.
Structure
Cuboidal epithelium cells are roughly square in shape when viewed in cross-section. They have a height and width that are approximately equal. These cells are typically found in tissues that secrete or absorb substances, such as in the kidneys, the ducts of the salivary glands, and the surface of the ovaries.
Function
The primary functions of cuboidal epithelium are secretion, absorption, and protection. These cells may have microvilli to increase their surface area for absorption, or they may have cilia to move substances along their surface.
Types
There are two main types of cuboidal epithelium:
- Simple cuboidal epithelium: This type consists of a single layer of cuboidal cells. It is found in areas of the body where absorption and secretion occur, such as the kidney tubules and the thyroid gland.
- Stratified cuboidal epithelium: This type consists of multiple layers of cells, with the top layer being cuboidal in shape. It is found in certain glands and ducts, such as the sweat glands and the mammary glands.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cuboidal epithelium
- Wikipedia's article - Cuboidal epithelium
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