Role of Epithelial Tissues as Selective Blood-Tissue Barriers

Common english name for tissues which are separated from the blood by blood-tissue barriers

The common English name for tissues that are separated from the blood by blood-tissue barriers is epithelial tissues. Epithelial tissues form continuous layers of cells that cover the external surfaces of the body, line internal organs and cavities, and also comprise certain glands. These tissues act as a selective barrier, regulating the movement of substances between the blood and the underlying tissues.

Epithelial tissues are found in many organs, such as the skin, intestines, kidneys, and lungs. They are tightly packed together, forming a sheet-like structure with specialized cell junctions that prevent the easy passage of molecules and cells from the blood into the tissues and vice versa.

The primary function of these barriers is to control the exchange of substances, ensuring that essential molecules such as nutrients and oxygen are selectively transported into the tissues while metabolic waste products and harmful substances are prevented from freely entering. This selective permeability is achieved through the presence of various transport mechanisms including active transport, diffusion, and specific channels or carriers.

Epithelial tissues further have specialized features that enhance their barrier function. For instance, the presence of tight junctions between adjacent cells helps in sealing the gaps between cells and prevents the movement of molecules between them. Additionally, the presence of microvilli on certain epithelial cells increases the surface area for absorption of nutrients while maintaining a controlled barrier.

Therefore, epithelial tissues act as effective blood-tissue barriers, ensuring the maintenance of homeostasis by precisely controlling the movement of substances between the blood and the underlying tissues.

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