Simple Squamous Epithelium

Dajay, J.V. (2021, September 02). Simple Squamous Epithelium Definitions, Structures, History,
and Functions. Biology Laboratory

A single layer of epithelial cells makes up simple squamous epithelium, also known as
simple squamous epithelial tissue or pavement epithelium. Pavement epithelium gets its name
from the fact that it looks like tiles or bricks. The basement membrane, which separates the
epithelial tissue from the underlying connective tissue, is in direct touch with the epithelial
tissue. This basement membrane works as a glue, pinning epithelial tissue to underlying
structures.

Epithelial cells are sheets of cells that cover almost every surface of the body. They can
be classified as simple (single layer) or complex (stratified) histologically based on the shape of
the cells that make them up (many layers). It could be squamous (like a scale), cuboidal (like a
cube), or columnar (like a column) in shape (column-like). Simple squamous epithelium is a
form of simple epithelium that lines the outer layer of the skin, endothelium, and secretory
sections of tiny glands and is made up of squamous epithelial cells. It also lines the glomeruli of
the kidney and the alveoli of the lungs, where passive diffusion takes place. Simple squamous
epithelial tissue; pavement epithelium are synonyms.

A simple squamous epithelium is a squamous epithelial cell-based epithelium. Flat

squamous epithelial cells with an oblong nucleus and a scale-like appearance are characteristics
of squamous epithelial cells. When viewed from above, the cells are broader than they are tall
and seem hexagonal. The tissue is polarized, with one face facing the outside world and the
other facing the basement membrane. This form of epithelium has a smooth, low-friction
surface that allows fluids to flow freely across it. Small molecules can move through the
membrane via diffusion or filtration since it is permeable. Because blood vessels are not in
direct touch with epithelial cells, they must rely on diffusion to obtain all of their nutrients, such
as oxygen and metabolites. As a result, the basement membrane plays a critical role in allowing
important nutrients to diffuse over it and into the basic squamous epithelium. Integrins are
receptors on the cell membrane of epithelial cells that allow them to interact with the
basement membrane.

A single, flat layer of cells makes up the simple squamous epithelium. Due of the
pressure, the cells are firmly packed together, resulting in a polygonal pattern. The basal lamina
and the reticular lamina make up the basement membrane beneath simple squamous cells. The
basal lamina is made up of glycoproteins and collagen and serves as the epithelium's
attachment place. The reticular lamina, which is secreted by the connective tissue layer below,
is linked to the basal lamina.

What does the basic squamous epithelium do? The major functions of the basic
squamous tissue are secretion and absorption. They allow tiny molecules to pass freely across
the membrane due to their thin and simple design. Oxygen and carbon dioxide, for example,
diffuse across the membrane in a concentration gradient. They also have transmembrane
protein channels, which allow specific chemicals to pass across the cell membrane. Because of
the diversity of these transmembrane channels, basic squamous tissue can be differentiated to
fulfill diverse functions depending on its location in the body. It's also worth mentioning that
epithelial cells are typically found on the outside of tissues, adjacent to a lumen or "inner
space." This offers it the added benefit of shielding the underlying tissue from the elements.

Where can you find simple squamous epithelium? Simple squamous epithelium can be
found in a variety of places. They can be found all over the body, including lining the glomerulus
and bowman's capsules in the kidney and on the inner surface of lymphatic and blood vessels.
They line the pericardial, peritoneal, and pleural cavities, as well as the alveoli of the lungs,
allowing gases to diffuse. They also cover the reproductive cavities of both men and women.
The mesothelium is a group of simple squamous epithelial cells that line the bodily cavities,
reproductive organs, and heart. The squamous epithelium that coats the inner surface of blood
arteries and lymphatic vessels is referred to as endothelium. The anatomy and functions of the
mesothelium and endothelium are discussed in greater depth further below.

Simple squamous epithelial cells are thin and flat, allowing molecules to pass through by
diffusion. This cell type can be found in capillary walls, pericardium linings, and alveoli.