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Simple cuboidal epithelium

Medically Reviewed by Anatomy Team

Table of Contents

Simple cuboidal epithelium consists of a single layer of cube-shaped cells with centrally located round nuclei.[8] It is commonly involved in secretion, absorption, and protective functions.[1]

Anatomy

  • Cell Shape: Cells are roughly as tall as they are wide, forming a cube-like appearance.
  • Nucleus: Spherical and located in the center of the cell.[7]
  • Arrangement: Cells are tightly packed, forming a continuous sheet.

Location

Simple cuboidal epithelium is found in organs where secretion and absorption are primary functions. Common locations include:

  • Kidney tubules: Facilitates reabsorption and secretion during urine formation.
  • Thyroid gland: Lines follicles and is involved in hormone production.
  • Ovaries: Covers the surface of the ovaries.
  • Ducts of glands: Lines small excretory ducts in glands such as salivary glands and pancreas.

Function

  • Secretion: Produces and releases substances like hormones, enzymes, and mucus.
  • Absorption: Takes up substances from the lumen, such as nutrients or water.[2]
  • Protection: Forms a barrier to protect underlying tissues in certain organs.

Clinical significance

  • Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Abnormalities in kidney tubule epithelium, which is lined by simple cuboidal cells, can lead to cyst formation.[3]
  • Thyroid Disorders: Diseases like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism involve altered functioning of the thyroid follicles lined by simple cuboidal epithelium.
  • Salivary Gland Obstruction: Damage or blockage in ducts lined by simple cuboidal epithelium can lead to salivary gland swelling or infection.[5]

References

  1. Dellmann HD, Eurell JA. Textbook of Veterinary Histology. 6th ed. Wiley-Blackwell; 1998. ISBN 978-0683306187.
  2. Gartner LP, Hiatt JL. Color Textbook of Histology. 3rd ed. Saunders; 2000. ISBN 978-0721688466.
  3. Geneser F. Textbook of Histology. 1st ed. Munksgaard; 1986. ISBN 978-8716110747.
  4. Anthony AL. Textbook of Histology and Practical Guide. 3rd ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2014. ISBN 978-8184738057.
  5. Oviedo A. Basic Histology and Embryology. 1st ed. McGraw-Hill Education; 1992. ISBN 978-8445801010.
  6. Mitchell AW, Drake RL, Vogl AW. Gray’s Anatomy for Students. 3rd ed. Elsevier; 2015. ISBN 978-0702051319.
  7. Waugh A, Grant A. Ross and Wilson Anatomy and Physiology in Health and Illness. 13th ed. Elsevier; 2018. ISBN 978-0702072765.
  8. Leeson CR, Leeson TS, Paparo AA. Textbook of Histology. 5th ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 1988. ISBN 978-0721617787.