How does epithelium in each region of the respiratory tract adapted so its form follows function?
Nasal cavity
* Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium: This type of epithelium is found in the nasal cavity, where it helps to filter dust, pollen, and other particles from the air. The cilia on the surface of the cells beat in a wave-like motion, moving mucus and trapped particles toward the back of the throat, where they can be swallowed or expectorated.
* Goblet cells: Goblet cells are specialized cells that produce mucin, a glycoprotein that forms the main component of mucus. Mucus helps to trap dust, pollen, and other particles, and it also helps to keep the nasal cavity moist.
Trachea and bronchi
* Pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium: This type of epithelium is also found in the trachea and bronchi, where it helps to move mucus and trapped particles toward the lungs. The cilia on the surface of the cells beat in a wave-like motion, moving mucus and trapped particles upward toward the pharynx, where they can be swallowed or expectorated.
* Goblet cells: Goblet cells are also found in the trachea and bronchi, where they produce mucin to help keep the airways moist.
Bronchioles
* Simple cuboidal epithelium: This type of epithelium is found in the bronchioles, where it helps to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the blood. The cells in this epithelium are thin and flat, which allows for easy diffusion of gases.
Alveoli
* Simple squamous epithelium: This type of epithelium is found in the alveoli, where it helps to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide with the blood. The cells in this epithelium are extremely thin and delicate, which allows for rapid diffusion of gases.
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