Stratified squamous epithelia are tissues formed from multiple layers of cells resting on a basement membrane, with the superficial layer(s) consisting of squamous cells. Underlying cell layers can be made of cuboidal or columnar cells as well.
Epithelia consisting of multiple cell layers are generally found in regions where there is mechanical or chemical abrasion and stress and these tissues protect underlying structures from harm. Stratified squamous epithelia are found in nearly every organ system where the body comes into close contact with the outside environment from the skin to the respiratory, digestive, excretory and reproductive systems. They also protect the body from desiccation and water loss.
Stratified squamous epithelia are tissues formed from multiple layers of cells resting on a basement membrane, with the superficial layer(s) consisting of squamous cells. Underlying cell layers can be made of cuboidal or columnar cells as well.
Epithelia consisting of multiple cell layers are generally found in regions where there is mechanical or chemical abrasion and stress and these tissues protect underlying structures from harm. Stratified squamous epithelia are found in nearly every organ system where the body comes into close contact with the outside environment from the skin to the respiratory, digestive, excretory and reproductive systems. They also protect the body from desiccation and water loss.