What characterizes simple epithelium?

Simple epithelium is characterized by being made up of a single layer of cells. This type of epithelial tissue allows for efficient absorption, secretion, and filtration because the thin layer minimizes the distance that substances need to travel. Simple epithelium can be classified further into different types based on cell shape, such as simple squamous, simple cuboidal, or simple columnar, each serving specific functions in various organs throughout the body.

The presence of a single layer contrasts with stratified epithelium, which consists of multiple layers of cells and serves protective functions, particularly in areas subject to abrasion and wear, like the skin. The size of the nucleus or the specific locations where different types of epithelium are found, such as skin, do not define simple epithelium, making the focus on the single-layer structure vital for understanding its characteristics and functions.