Stratified squamous, nonkeratinized (moist) epithelium
Stratified epithelia have multiple cell layers and are specialized for protection. They are further classified by the shape of the cells at the surface. In stratified squamous epithelia, the surface cells are flattened and in a non-keratinized epithelium (seen here), the surface cells are living, displaying prominent nuclei. This type of epithelium lines internal body surfaces which are subjected to abrasion, such as the esophagus and vagina. Esophagus, 400x
Stratified squamous, nonkeratinized (moist) epithelium
Stratified epithelia have multiple cell layers and are specialized for protection. They are further classified by the shape of the cells at the surface. In stratified squamous epithelia, the surface cells are flattened and in a non-keratinized epithelium (seen here), the surface cells are living, displaying prominent nuclei. This type of epithelium lines internal body surfaces which are subjected to abrasion, such as the esophagus and vagina. Esophagus, 400x
- Basal layer cells >
Cuboidal-shaped basal cells are mitotically active and their progeny are gradually pushed upwards to form the multiple layers of the epithelium. In the process, they become squamous-shaped, eventually being shed from the surface to provide protection without damage to underlying tissues. In this non-keratinized epithelium, the cells remain alive, retaining their organelles throughout.
- Squamous cells
Cuboidal-shaped basal cells are mitotically active and their progeny are gradually pushed upwards to form the multiple layers of the epithelium. In the process, they become squamous-shaped, eventually being shed from the surface to provide protection without damage to underlying tissues. In this non-keratinized epithelium, the cells remain alive, retaining their organelles throughout.
Basement membrane >
Only basal cells contact the basement membrane.
