How does the structure of epithelial tissue help it to perform its function? Its ability to conduct electrical signals allows fo
r control and coordination of body movements. Its fibrous layers allow the tissue to be a strong yet flexible binding agent. Its contractile cells that make up the tissue allow for movement. Its tightly packed cells allow for protection against harmful substances.
Epithelial tissue consists of tightly packed sheets of cells that cover surfaces—including the outside of the body—and line body cavities. For instance, the outer layer of your skin is an epithelial tissue, and so is the lining of your small intestine.
Epithelial cells are polarized, meaning that they have a top and a bottom side. The apical, top, side of an epithelial cell faces the inside of a cavity or the outside of a structure and is usually exposed to fluid or air. The basal, bottom, side faces the underlying cells. For instance, the apical sides of intestinal cells have finger-like structures that increase surface area for absorbing nutrients
