There is no intercellular matrix

in the epithelial cells. They are the protective covering all over the body. The cell to cell contacts binds the cell together. so, the cells of epithelial cells are compactly arranged.

What will happen if cells of epithelial tissue are not compactly arranged?

The surface location of epithelial cells subjects to lot of damage from environmental contact. If they are not compactly packed the cells may not divide rapidly to replace damaged surface cells that get off.

What causes the different shapes of the epithelial cells?

The gap junctions are where the cells exchange nutrients. Unfortunately, sometimes viruses can use these doors to spread between cells, too! Epithelial cells come in different shapes depending on where in the body they're found. These shapes are called squamous, cuboidal, columnar, and ciliated columnar.