Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium

What is a Cuboidal Epithelium?

The cuboidal epithelium is a type of epithelium that consists of cube-shaped cells with nearly equal dimensions in height and width, giving them a uniform appearance under a microscope. These cells are usually found lining the surfaces of ducts, glands, and other structures where absorption, secretion, protection, and filtration play essential roles that are important for maintaining health and proper body functioning....

Types and Location of Cuboidal Epithelium

Cuboidal cells are named so because they are shaped like cubes. These are found in the lining of the ovaries, pancreas, kidneys, and salivary glands. The cuboidal epithelium is further divided into two types according to the number of layers it possesses. These are simple cubic epithelium and stratified cubic epitheliums. Let us understand these in detail....

Simple Cuboidal Epithelium

This simple type consists of a single layer of cube-like cells that are as tall as they are wide. The nucleus is usually spherical, giving the cells a uniform appearance, and all the cells are directly attached to the basement membrane. They are usually found in places that are secretory and absorptive. The large cube shape provides the proper surface area for these activities....

Stratified Cuboidal Epithelium

The stratified cuboidal epithelium consists of two or more layers of cells and is involved in protection. It is found in larger ducts of glands like sweat glands, mammary glands, and salivary glands. This multilayer structure helps in the protection of the underlying tissues. The cells underlying this tissue are ciliated and columnar. The cells of stratified cuboidal epithelium are all connected to each other with the help of special proteins. This epithelium is present in a lesser amount in the human body as compared to a simple cuboidal epithelium....

Specialized Variants

Beyond the standard simple cuboidal epithelium and stratified cuboidal epithelium types, this displays specialized variants that perform specific roles. These specialized forms show modifications that enable them to effectively carry out their specific functions. Here are some of the key specialized variants of cuboidal epithelium:...

Functions of Cuboidal Epithelium

Following are the functions of cuboidal epithelium:...

FAQs – Cuboidal Epithelium

How does Cuboidal Epithelium help in Excretion?...