Type of Epithelium Cell Structure Function Location

Simple Squamous Epithelium Single layer of flat cells Filtration, diffusion, Line heart
with centrally located osmosis & secretion of Blood & lymph vessels
nucleus serous membranes Air sacs of lungs
Glomerular capsule
Inner surface of
tympanic
membrane
(epithelial layer of
serous membranes)
Peritoneurm
Simple Columnar Epithelium Single layer of non- Secretion and absorption Lines the
ciliated rectangular cells gastrointestinal
with nuclei near base of tract from stomach
cells, contain goblet to anus
cells & cells with Ducts of many glands
microvilli in some Gallbladder
locations

Ciliated Simple Columnar Single layer of ciliated Moves mucus and other Lines a few portions of
Epithelium rectangular cells with substances by ciliary action upper respiratory
nuclei near base of cells tract
contain goblet cells in Uterine, fallopian
some locations. tubes
Uterus
Some paranasal
sinuses
Central canal of spinal
cord
Stratified Cuboidal/ 2 or more cell layers Protection, limited Ducts of adult sweat &
Columnar Epithelium Apical cells are secretion & absorption esophageal glands
cube/column-shaped Part of male urethra

Stratified Squamous Several layers of cells, Protection Kertainised variety

Epithelium cuboidal/columnar in forms superficial
deep & squamous in layers of skin
superficial Non-keratinised
layers; cells from basal variety lines/covers
layer replace surface wet surfaces (eg.
cells as they are lost. Mouth, esophagus,
tongue)
Pseudo-stratified Columnar Not truly stratified; Secretion & movement of Lines the airways of
Epithelium nuclei of cells are at mucus by ciliary action most of upper
different levels; all cells respiratory tract
attached to basement
membrane, but not all
reach the surface

Transitional Epithelium

Glandular Epithelium-
Exocrine Glad

Glandular Epithelium-
Endocrine Gland