What type of epithelium lines the esophagus, characterized by multiple layers?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option C
- The esophagus is lined by stratified squamous epithelium, which is specifically adapted to protect against mechanical stress.
- This type of epithelium consists of multiple layers of flat cells, providing a robust barrier to withstand abrasion from food particles as they pass through the esophagus.
- Unlike simple columnar or pseudostratified columnar epithelium, which are typically involved in absorption or secretion, stratified squamous epithelium primarily serves a protective function.
- Stratified refers to multiple cell layers.
- Squamous indicates that the surface cells are flat and scale-like.
- This epithelium is non-keratinized in the esophagus, which helps maintain a moist surface suitable for the lining of the digestive tract.
Other options such as simple columnar epithelium are found lining the stomach and intestines, where absorption and secretion occur. Transitional epithelium is characteristic of the urinary bladder, designed to stretch. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium is found in parts of the respiratory tract and is involved in mucus secretion and movement.
Thus, the correct answer is clearly stratified squamous epithelium.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Histology of the Digestive Tract
- This type of epithelium consists of multiple layers of flat cells, providing a robust barrier to withstand abrasion from food particles as they pass through the esophagus.
- Unlike simple columnar or pseudostratified columnar epithelium, which are typically involved in absorption or secretion, stratified squamous epithelium primarily serves a protective function.
- Stratified refers to multiple cell layers.
- Squamous indicates that the surface cells are flat and scale-like.
- This epithelium is non-keratinized in the esophagus, which helps maintain a moist surface suitable for the lining of the digestive tract.
Other options such as simple columnar epithelium are found lining the stomach and intestines, where absorption and secretion occur. Transitional epithelium is characteristic of the urinary bladder, designed to stretch. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium is found in parts of the respiratory tract and is involved in mucus secretion and movement.
Thus, the correct answer is clearly stratified squamous epithelium.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 4: Histology of the Digestive Tract
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