TRANSITIONAL EPITHELIUM Meaning and
Definition
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Transitional epithelium is a specialized type of epithelial tissue found in the body, particularly in organs such as the urinary bladder, ureters, and parts of the urethra. It is characterized by its ability to stretch and recoil without damage, allowing the organs to accommodate changes in volume or shape.
This type of tissue is comprised of multiple layers of cells, ranging from 3 to 7 layers thick, depending on the degree of distention of the organ. The cells are irregular in shape and can change from cuboidal to squamous depending on the stretch of the tissue. The polygonal cells in relaxed state have rounded or flattened tops, while their basal surface is more irregular.
Transitional epithelium acts as a protective barrier against urine and other materials present within the urinary tract. Its unique structure and properties allow it to adapt to the constant stretching and relaxation that occurs in organs like the bladder during filling and emptying.
The composition of transitional epithelial cells includes specialized proteins known as uroplakins, which contribute to the tissue's impermeability and flexibility. These proteins form plaques on the apical surface of the cells, preventing the movement of substances across the epithelium.
Overall, transitional epithelium is a dynamic tissue that allows for the efficient functioning of organs involved in urine storage and excretion. Its ability to expand and contract without damage makes it a crucial component of the urinary system.
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Stratified e. of two or three layers, each of which is formed by a transformation of the cells from the layer below; it occurs in the renal pelvis, ureter, and bladder.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TRANSITIONAL EPITHELIUM
- rransitional epithelium
- fransitional epithelium
- gransitional epithelium
- yransitional epithelium
- 6ransitional epithelium
- 5ransitional epithelium
- teansitional epithelium
- tdansitional epithelium
- tfansitional epithelium
- ttansitional epithelium
- t5ansitional epithelium
- t4ansitional epithelium
- trznsitional epithelium
- trsnsitional epithelium
- trwnsitional epithelium
- trqnsitional epithelium
- trabsitional epithelium
- tramsitional epithelium
- trajsitional epithelium
- trahsitional epithelium
Etymology of TRANSITIONAL EPITHELIUM
The term "transitional epithelium" is derived from the combination of two words: "transitional" and "epithelium".
1. "Transitional" comes from the Latin word "transitus", meaning "passage" or "crossing over". In the context of transitional epithelium, it refers to the tissue's ability to undergo changes in shape and stretch, enabling it to transition or adapt to different states, such as when an organ is empty or full.
2. "Epithelium" originates from the Greek word "epi", meaning "upon" or "over", and "thēlē", meaning "nipple" or "teat". Epithelium refers to a type of tissue that covers the surfaces and lines the cavities of many organs in the body. It serves various functions such as protection, secretion, and absorption.
