Simple squamous epithelium is a single layer of flat, thin, and scale-like epithelial cells. This type of tissue is specialized for processes like filtration, diffusion, and secretion due to its thinness and permeability.
Anatomy
- Cell Shape: Cells are flattened and irregularly shaped, resembling scales.
- Nucleus: Centrally located and flattened.
- Arrangement: Cells are tightly packed together, forming a continuous sheet.
Location
Simple squamous epithelium is found in regions where rapid exchange of substances occurs, such as:
- Alveoli of the lungs: Facilitates gas exchange between air and blood.
- Glomeruli of kidneys: Allows filtration of blood during urine formation.
- Endothelium of blood vessels and lymphatics: Lines the interior of vessels, aiding in smooth blood flow.
- Mesothelium: Lines body cavities such as the pleura (lungs), peritoneum (abdomen), and pericardium (heart).
Function
- Diffusion: Facilitates the passage of gases and small molecules.
- Filtration: Allows selective filtration, as seen in kidney glomeruli.
- Secretion: Produces serous fluid in mesothelial linings to reduce friction between organs.
Clinical Significance
- Damage to the epithelium: Can lead to impaired gas exchange or filtration, such as in pulmonary edema or glomerulonephritis.
- Mesothelioma: A cancer of the mesothelial cells often linked to asbestos exposure.
- Atherosclerosis: Endothelial damage in blood vessels can contribute to plaque formation, leading to cardiovascular diseases.
