What is the role of epithelial tissues in absorption and secretion?
Epithelial tissues line the surfaces of organs and structures throughout the body. These tissues are pivotal in absorption and secretion. For example, the epithelial cells in the intestines absorb nutrients from digested food, while those in glands secrete hormones and enzymes. The structure of microvilli on the epithelial cells increases the surface area for absorption, enhancing the efficiency of these processes.