Difference Between Keratinized and Non-Keratinized Epithelium
Keratinized Epithelium |
Non-Keratinized Epithelium |
|
|---|---|---|
| Deposition of Keratin Proteinon the Surface | Presence of keratin in cells | Absence of keratin in cells |
| Present in Area | Found in areas subjected to friction, abrasion, and trauma (skin and nails) | Found in areas not subjected to friction, abrasion, and trauma (oral mucosa, esophagus, vagina) |
| Effective Barrier | Provides a protective barrier against physical damage | Facilitates diffusion and absorption |
| Cells | Thick and tough cells | Thin and moist cells |
| Cell Size | Lower in Size | Larger in Size |
| Pervious and Impervious to Water | Impervious | Pervious |
| Keratin Protein Deposited on the Surface | The dynamic process of keratinization | No keratinization |
| Outermost Cell Layer | Cells are dead and sloughed off at the surface | Cells are alive at the surface |
| Keratohyalin Granules | Granules are present | Absent in nonkeratinized epithelium |
Difference Between Keratinized and Non-Keratinized Epithelium
The epithelium is a type of tissue that forms the outer layer of the body and helps to protect the underlying tissues from damage and injury. Within the epithelium, there are two main types: keratinized and nonkeratinized. The difference between these two types lies in their structure and function.
The keratinized epithelium is found in areas of the body that are subjected to friction, pressure, or abrasion, such as the skin and nails. This type of epithelium contains large amounts of the protein keratin, which provides strength and toughness to the tissue. This makes the tissue less susceptible to injury and helps to prevent water loss and damage from the environment.
Nonkeratinized epithelium, on the other hand, is found in areas that are not subjected to friction or pressure, such as the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and respiratory and digestive tracts. This type of epithelium does not contain keratin and is therefore thinner and more delicate than keratinized epithelium. Let us study them in detail.
Contact Us