Stratified cuboidal epithelium

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WVSOM Parotid Gland1

Stratified cuboidal epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue that consists of multiple layers of cuboidal cells. This tissue type is found in areas of the body where protection and secretion are necessary but where a high degree of flexibility is not required. Stratified cuboidal epithelium is less common than other epithelial tissue types, such as simple squamous epithelium or simple cuboidal epithelium, and serves specific functions in the organs where it is located.

Structure

Stratified cuboidal epithelium is composed of two or more layers of cells that are roughly cube-shaped. The cells at the base layer are typically attached to a basement membrane, which helps to anchor the epithelium to underlying tissues. The cells in the upper layers may not be perfectly cuboidal, especially in tissues where the epithelium is stretched or compressed. However, the presence of multiple cell layers gives this tissue type its characteristic thickness and durability.

Location

This type of epithelium is primarily found in the ducts of sweat glands, mammary glands, and salivary glands. It plays a crucial role in the protection of these ducts, as well as in the facilitation of secretion. Stratified cuboidal epithelium can also be found in the ovarian follicles and in parts of the male urethra, where it contributes to the reproductive process by providing a protective lining.

Function

The main functions of stratified cuboidal epithelium include:

• Protection: The multiple layers of cells provide a barrier against mechanical and chemical stresses.
• Secretion: Glands lined with stratified cuboidal epithelium are involved in the secretion of various substances, such as sweat, saliva, and milk.
• Conduction: In the ducts of glands, this epithelium facilitates the movement of secreted substances towards their destinations.

Clinical Significance

Alterations in the structure or function of stratified cuboidal epithelium can lead to various medical conditions. For example, blockages in the ducts lined by this epithelium can result in cysts or infections. Understanding the properties of stratified cuboidal epithelium is important in the diagnosis and treatment of such conditions.

See Also

• Epithelium
• Cuboidal epithelium
• Simple epithelium
• Stratified epithelium
• Glandular epithelium