Epithelial tissues are widespread throughout the body. They form the covering of all body surfaces, line body cavities and hollow organs, and are the major tissue in glands. They perform a variety of functions that include protection, secretion, absorption, excretion, filtration, diffusion, and sensory reception.

What are the 3 major functions of epithelial tissue?

In epithelial tissue, cells are closely packed with little or no extracellular matrix except for the basal lamina that separates the epithelium from underlying tissue. The main functions of epithelia are protection from the environment, coverage, secretion and excretion, absorption, and filtration.

How does the structure of epithelial cells help its function?

Epithelia cells also contain additional structures that facilitate their activities. Epithelial cells involved in absorption often contain microvilli, finger-like projections of the plasma membrane, that increase the surface area of the plasma membrane, allowing for more efficient uptake of material.