Neurons as a cell type have very diverse structures. They could be classified by their modalities and morphologies. Their functions are to conduct messages to and from the Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System, or within each system.\ Continue reading Neuron
Hyaline means “glass-like” or “transparent” because of how it looks under the microscope. It is the most common cartilage and can be found in locations such as trachea, articular surfaces of bones, larynx and nasal septum. Even though it’s called … Continue reading Hyaline Cartilage
Fibrocartilage is similar to hyaline cartilage but with the addition of thick and dense collagen fibers that are deposited in the extracellular matrix. It can be found in locations where shock absorption is needed such as intervertebral discs and symphyses … Continue reading Fibrocartilage
Elastic cartilage is similar to cartilage but with the additional elasticity due to the elastic fibers that are deposited in the extracellular matrix. It can be found in the external ear, external auditory canal, epiglottis and part of the laryngeal … Continue reading Elastic Cartilage
Bone tissues support and allow body movements. It provides mineral storage of calcium and phosphate, and bone marrow assists in the production of blood cells. It is a tissue composed of cells and the ground substance is mineralized extracellular matrix … Continue reading Bone
This type of epithelium resembles both stratified squamous and stratified cuboidal as the surface layer could change shape. They are usually found in the urinary tract such as the ureters, urinary bladder and urethra where the organs and tubes need … Continue reading Transitional Epithelium
Simple columnar epithelium contains cells that are rectangle in shape and have their nuclei arranged on the basal side. Their nuclei also tend to look oval shape. This type of epithelium can be found in the digestive tract, uterine tube … Continue reading Simple Columnar Epithelium
Pseudostratified columnar epithelium gets its name because while the cells are columnar in shape, their nuclei do not arrange at the bottom (or basal side) of the cell. Rather the nuclei are arranged in an almost random fashion. However, they … Continue reading Pseudostratified Columnar Epithelium
Pacinian corpusles are structures that can be found in the dermis. They are the encapsulated end of a sensory neuron that detects vibration and pressure. The corpuscle resembles a flattened plate. Continue reading Pacinian Corpuscle
Stratified epithelium is classified by the cell type on the uppermost layer. Notice that is true for the pictures shown below. They are typically found in locations where constant abrasion is likely, such as skin. The epithelium at these locations … Continue reading Stratified Squamous epithelium, Keratinized
Kit Ng, Ph.D. 