Trachea Anatomy: Structure, Function & Components

The trachea is a flexible, tube-like organ made up of cartilage, connective tissue, and muscle. It is composed of 16-20 C-shaped cartilage rings, which are held together by ligaments and muscles. These cartilage rings provide support and prevent the trachea from collapsing. The inner lining of the trachea is made up of ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium, which contains mucus-producing cells that help to protect the airways from foreign particles. The trachea is lined with ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelium that secretes mucus to trap dust, pollen, and other foreign particles. The cilia beat in a wave-like motion, propelling the mucus and trapped particles upward toward the throat, where it can be swallowed or expelled by coughing.