Cilia

These goblet cells secrete mucus, which creates a sticky film across the surface of the epithelium.  The mucus traps inhaled particulate material and is swept upward by the cilia, a process called muco-ciliary transport.

Much of the epithelium of the respiratory tract possesses cilia.  Inhaled particulate material is captured in a sheet of mucus produced by goblet cells. This mucous sheet is swept upward in the respiratory tract by the action of the cilia.  Each cilium contains a microtubule complex called the axoneme, which emanates from the basal body.  Note the uniquely thick basal lamina of this epithelium.  1000x

Much of the epithelium of the respiratory tract possesses cilia.  Inhaled particulate material is captured in a sheet of mucus produced by goblet cells. This mucous sheet is swept upward in the respiratory tract by the action of the cilia.  Each cilium contains a microtubule complex called the axoneme, which emanates from the basal body.  Note the uniquely thick basal lamina of this epithelium.  1000x

Though not as evident as in the previous images, the basal bodies form a distinct, visible band at the surface of the epithelium.

These goblet cells secrete mucus, which creates a sticky film across the surface of the epithelium.  The mucus traps inhaled particulate material and is swept upward by the cilia, a process called muco-ciliary transport.

The basement membrane is more prominent in the respiratory system than in other organ systems.