Basic Histology -- More Epithelium and Fibrous Tissue Next Home Back

Epithelial cells from surfaces may grow down into the tissues to perform specialized functions. We call these "glands".

Whatever form they take, you can recognize epithelial cells because they adhere tightly to one another. Although you cannot always distinguish the cell borders, you can tell where the epithelial cells' cytoplasm is located.

Of course, gland cells must have fibers to support their active epithelium, both physically and by supplying blood flow. There are also some cells in-between these fibers. You will learn about the components of fibrous tissue soon.

This is a mucus-producing gland. Remember the mucin is mostly carbohydrate, so it stains pale.

Mucin inside cells tends to look a little bit bubbly, because it's contained inside vacuoles. The bubbly effect is easy to see here.

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