HISTOLOGICAL FEATURES AND FUNCTIONAL SIGNIFICANCE OF EPITHELIAL TISSUES: A SCIENTIFIC REVIEW

Abstract

Epithelial tissues represent one of the four fundamental tissue types in the human body and play a crucial role in protection, secretion, absorption, filtration, and sensation. This review summarizes current scientific findings regarding the structural organization, cellular specialization, regenerative capacity, and clinical relevance of epithelial tissues. Particular emphasis is placed on the molecular mechanisms regulating epithelial differentiation and barrier function. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for advancing diagnostic histopathology and improving targeted therapeutic strategies in epithelial-derived diseases.