Transitional epithelium
Transitional Epithelium
Transitional epithelium (pronounced: tran-zish-uh-nl ep-i-thee-lee-uhm), also known as urothelium, is a type of epithelial tissue that is found in the urinary system of mammals. The term "transitional" refers to the tissue's ability to change shape in response to tension, a characteristic that allows it to accommodate fluctuations in the volume of fluid in organs such as the bladder.
Etymology
The term "transitional" is derived from the Latin word "transitio", which means "going across" or "changing". This reflects the tissue's unique ability to change its shape. The term "epithelium" comes from the Greek words "epi", meaning "upon" or "over", and "thelē", meaning "nipple", referring to the tissue's location on the surface of organs.
Structure
Transitional epithelium is composed of multiple layers of epithelial cells. The cells on the surface, or apical layer, are large and dome-shaped when the tissue is relaxed, but become flattened when the tissue is stretched. The cells in the underlying layers are typically smaller and have a more cuboidal or columnar shape.
Function
The primary function of transitional epithelium is to act as a barrier that prevents the backflow of urine from the bladder into the bloodstream. It also allows the organs of the urinary system to stretch and expand to accommodate varying volumes of urine.
Related Terms
- Epithelial tissue: The type of tissue that lines the surfaces and cavities of the body's organs.
- Urinary system: The system of organs that produces, stores, and eliminates urine.
- Bladder: The organ that stores urine before it is excreted from the body.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Transitional epithelium
- Wikipedia's article - Transitional epithelium
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