What is the structure of stratified cuboidal epithelium?

Stratified cuboidal epithelium is characterized by multiple layers of cuboidal-shaped cells. This type of epithelium is typically found in certain glandular tissues, such as sweat glands, mammary glands, and salivary glands, where it plays a crucial role in protection and secretion. The multiple layers provide a robust barrier against mechanical stress and help in the functioning of glands.

The presence of more than one layer allows stratified cuboidal epithelium to efficiently cover and protect underlying tissues while also facilitating the functions of secretion and absorption within glands. The cuboidal shape of the cells enables the epithelium to be relatively thick and durable, further contributing to its protective and specialized functions in secretory environments.

In contrast, the other options describe different types of epithelial tissue or their structures, which do not accurately reflect the characteristics of stratified cuboidal epithelium. For example, a single layer of cube-shaped cells describes simple cuboidal epithelium rather than stratified. Flat cells arranged in layers represent stratified squamous epithelium, and transitional cells that expand and contract pertain to transitional epithelium typically found in the urinary bladder. Thus, identifying stratified cuboidal epithe