Tissue types and function · USMLE Step 1

Which of the following is NOT a typical sub-type classification criterion for epithelial tissue?

  1. Number of cell layers (simple vs. stratified)
  2. Shape of surface cells (squamous, cuboidal, columnar)
  3. Presence of extracellular matrix fibers
  4. Specializations like cilia or microvilli
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Presence of extracellular matrix fibers

Epithelial classification depends on number of layers, shape of surface cells, and possible surface specializations. Presence of extracellular matrix fibers is not typical in epithelial — that is a feature of connective tissue.

Difficulty: Medium Question 6 of 22

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