L1 Epithelial tissue 1. Tissue Cells work together in functionally related groups Types: a. Epithelial--lining and covering General characteristics: Covers a body surface or lines a body cavity Forms most glands Functions: Protection, Absorption, Secretion, Ion transport, Filtration, Forms slippery surfaces Special characteristics: i. cellularity: cells are in close contact with each other with little or no intercellular space between them ii. specialized contacts: may have junctions for both attachment and communication iii. polarity: epithelial tissues always have an apical and basal surface iv. support by connective tissue: both tissue contribute to the basement membrane at the basal surface v. avascular: nutrients must diffuse vi. regeneration: epithelial tissues have a high capacity for regeneration Lateral surface features: Factors holding epithelial cells together i. adhesion proteins link plasma membranes of adjacent cells ii. contours of adjacent cell membranes iii. speci...