Histology and Embryology:
TP03: Epithelial tissue -
glands
Drª Sónia Oliveira
October 2024
Some epithelial cells converted in to specialized cells to perform a secretory function – GLANDS
Definition:
Introduction
An organ of secretion made up of specialized secretory cells; derived form surface epithelium on
which it opens
General features:
• Can be present as “discrete organ” or “in the layers of viscera”
• Epithelial in origin
• Functional unit of gland is formed by specialized secretory cells known as Secretory End Piece
• Fluid secreted by glands contain enzymes, mucus, hormones, protein, fat, etc…
• Rate of secretion if modulated by Nervous & Hormonal influence
• Secretory End Piece of some exocrine glands is surrounded by star shaped contractile cells that
lies between cells & basement membrane
• Called Myo-epithelial cells
• Share features of both epithelium & muscle cell
• Help in expulsion of secretions
Development of glands
Development of glands – Exocrine Glands
Development of glands – Endocrine Glands
Classification of glands
Based on SITE of
Secretion
Exocrine +
Exocrine Endocrine
Endocrine Paracrine
(With Ducts) (Ductless)
(Mixed)
Cord & Clump APUD (Amine
Unicellular /
type / Follicular Pancreas & Liver Precursor Uptake &
Multicellular
type Decarboxylation)
DNES (Diffuse
NeuroEndocrine
System)
Classification of Exocrine Glands
Based on
number of cells
Unicellular Multicellular
Goblet Cell
Classification of Exocrine Glands
Multicellular
Exocrine glands
Based on branching
pattern of ducts
Simple Compound
No branching Branched
Classification of Exocrine Glands
Multicellular Exocrine
glands
Based on Shape and Secretory End Piece
Alveolar /
Tubular Tubulo-alveolar
Acinar
Classification of Exocrine Glands
Multicellular Exocrine glands
Based on Nature of Secretion
Mucous Serous Mixed / Sero-mucous
Classification of Exocrine Glands
Multicellular Exocrine glands
Based on Manner of Secretion
Merocrine Apocrine Holocrine Cytocrine
Classification of Exocrine Glands
Multicellular Exocrine glands
Based on Development of Gland
Ectodermal Endodermal Mesodermal
TP3
To understand the histology of
different types of glandular epithelia
and their specializations.
Glandular Epithelia and Their
Significance
Glandular epithelia are specialized tissues found throughout the body that
play a crucial role in the secretion of various substances. These secretions
serve diverse functions, including digestion, protection, lubrication, and
more. Understanding glandular epithelia is fundamental to
comprehending how the body maintains homeostasis.
[Link]
[Link]
In the practical part of this class, you will have the opportunity to examine histological slides and
apply the knowledge gained during this section to identify and describe different glandular
epithelia and their specializations. The slides should include examples of various glandular
epithelia, allowing you to observe these structures firsthand.
Salivary Gland, human - H&E
Find an area of secretory tissue at low magnification, and scan over this area at high magnification. Within the
lobules and between the acini of the parotid you can find two types of ducts. Since they are both located within
the lobules, they are both intralobular ducts. Striated ducts are lined by a simple tall columnar epithelium.
Intercalated ducts are lined by a simple cuboidal epithelium and connect individual acini to the striated ducts.
Try to capture the features of the acini, intercalated and striated ducts in one compound drawing which shows
how they connect to each other. Label your drawing.
Suitable Slides:
unicellular exocrine glands (goblet cells): sections of intestines (duodenum, jejunum, ileum or colon) or trachea - H&E
secretory epithelial sheath: stomach - H&E
straight tubular glands: sections of stomach (principal glands) or colon (intestinal glands) - van Gieson, H&E
coiled tubular glands: sections of skin (sweat glands) - Integumentary System
alveolar gland: lactating mammary gland
serous and mucous acinar glands: sections of parotid gland, sublingual gland or tongue (lingual salivary glands) - H&E
Thanks
Do you have any questions?
sonoliveira@[Link]
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