Simple squamous epithelia are tissues formed from one layer of squamous cells that line surfaces. Squamous cells are large, thin, and flat and contain a rounded nucleus. Like other epithelial cells, they have polarity and contain a distinct apical surface with specialized membrane proteins. These epithelia are common where absorption or transport of materials is important. They also play a role in diffusion, osmosis and filtration. This makes them important in the kidney, in the alveoli of lungs and in the walls of capillaries.
Simple squamous epithelia are tissues formed from one layer of squamous cells that line surfaces. Squamous cells are large, thin, and flat and contain a rounded nucleus. Like other epithelial cells, they have polarity and contain a distinct apical surface with specialized membrane proteins. These epithelia are common where absorption or transport of materials is important. They also play a role in diffusion, osmosis and filtration. This makes them important in the kidney, in the alveoli of lungs and in the walls of capillaries.