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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of epithelial tissue?
A
Avascular but innervated
B
Cells are closely packed with minimal extracellular matrix
C
Cells exhibit polarity with distinct apical and basal surfaces
D
Contains abundant blood vessels within the tissue
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the characteristics of epithelial tissue: Epithelial tissue is avascular, meaning it lacks blood vessels, but it is innervated, meaning it has nerve supply. This is a key feature of epithelial tissue.
Recognize that epithelial cells are tightly packed: Epithelial tissue is composed of cells that are closely packed together with minimal extracellular matrix, which helps in forming protective barriers.
Identify the polarity of epithelial cells: Epithelial cells exhibit polarity, meaning they have distinct apical (top) and basal (bottom) surfaces. The apical surface often faces a lumen or external environment, while the basal surface is attached to a basement membrane.
Evaluate the statement about blood vessels: Epithelial tissue does not contain abundant blood vessels within the tissue itself. Instead, it relies on diffusion from blood vessels in the underlying connective tissue for nutrients and waste exchange.
Determine the correct answer: Based on the characteristics of epithelial tissue, the statement 'Contains abundant blood vessels within the tissue' is NOT a characteristic of epithelial tissue, as it is avascular.