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Respiratory Epithelium - Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 15:31, 28 June 2012
, 15:31, 28 June 2012no edit summary
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==Introduction==
Respiratory epithelium is a type of epithelium which lines both the upper and lower [[Cardiorespiratory System Overview - Anatomy & Physiology#Upper Respiratory Tract|respiratory tracts]]. It consists of multiple layers of cylindrical epithelium, along with cilia and goblet cells.
==Function==
===Air Modification===
Upon entry to the respiratory system, air is modified to protect the system. Particles are trapped and removed by the mucociliary escalator. Air is humidified by the evaporation from mucus and secretions from the epithelium and warmed due to the close proximity to the capillary network underlying the respiratory epithelium.
==Introduction==
===Mucociliary escalator===
The many cilia present on the surface of the cells of respiratory epithelium, along with the mucus producing goblet cells, are the functional units for the mucociliary escalator. Cilia on the respiratory epithelium beat in a co-ordinated manner. They beat in a caudal direction in the [[Nasal Cavity - Anatomy & Physiology|nasal cavity]] and in a cranial direction in the [[Trachea - Anatomy & Physiology|trachea]] and lower airways. Mucus is swallowed when it reaches the [[Pharynx - Anatomy & Physiology|nasopharynx]]. Constant movement reduces chances that pathogens can adhere to the respiratory epithelium.
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|powerpoints =[[Respiratory System Histology resource|Tutorial about the histology of the respiratory system]]<br>[[Epithelial Histology resource|Tutorial about epithelial histology, including the trachea]]
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[[Category:Respiratory System - Anatomy & Physiology]]
[[Category:A&P Done]]