Key principles of epithelial tissues:
Epithelial tissues comprise sheets of cells that are connected via intercellular junctions
Epithelial tissues are polar: The apical surface is "free," meaning it faces the external environment or the lumen of an internal passageway The basal surface attaches to the underlying basal membrane, which is a type of connective tissue
Some general functions of epithelial tissues include: Protection of underlying tissues from damage due to abrasion and/or dehydration Secretion Absorption













