Transitional epithelium
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2008-06-03T01:52:06Z
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{{Infobox Anatomy |
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Image = Harnblase Urothel.png |
Caption = Transitional epithelium of the [[urinary bladder]]. Note the rounded surface of the apical cells -- a distinguishing characteristic of this type of epithelium. |
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Caption2 = Transverse section of [[ureter]]. |
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'''Transitional epithelium''' (also known as urothelium) is a type of tissue consisting of multiple layers of [[epithelial]] cells which can contract and expand. These cells, part of the [[epithelium]], are usually found in the [[urinary tract]], especially around the [[urinary bladder]]. They are also found in the [[ureters]] and superior [[urethra]].
==Appearance==
These cells appear to be [[cuboidal]] when the organ or the tube is not stretched (in reality, squeezed like when your bladder fills up, the tissue actually "compress" hence, "stretched"). When these cells are stretched ("compress") they look flat and irregular, [[squamous]].
==Functions==
Some functions of the transitional epithelium cells: accommodates fluctuation of volume of the liquid in an organ or tube (i.e. urinary bladder), and protection against the caustic effects of [[urine]].
==Surfaces==
The free surface of the tissue (the part that faces outward into the organ or tube) is called the [[apical surface]] or free surface.
The part that lines the bottom of the tissue is called the [[basement membrane]].
==See also==
* [[Urothelium]]
==Additional images==
<gallery>
Image:Illu epithelium.jpg|Types of epithelium
Image:Gray1141.png|Vertical section of bladder wall.
</gallery>
==External links==
* [http://cellbio.utmb.edu/microanatomy/epithelia/transitional_epithelium.htm Histology at utmb.edu]
* {{OklahomaHistology|36_02}} - "ureter"
* {{OklahomaHistology|37_02}} - "urinary bladder"
* {{AnatomyAtlasesMicroscopic|02|24}} - "Transitional Epithelium", Ureter
* {{KansasHistology|urinary|renal16}} "ureter"
{{cell-biology-stub}}
{{Epithelial tissue}}
[[Category:Epithelial cells]]
[[it:Epitelio di transizione]]
[[ja:移行上皮]]