Pseudostratified Epithelium | Type | Function | Location

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The nuclei of cells in this type of simple epithelium appear at different levels and therefore give a false impression that the cells are in many layers. In pseudostratified epithelium, all the cells reach the basement membrane even though the nuclei will lie at different levels in the tissue, reflective of the irregular layering of tall and thin cells. However, only the taller cells will reach the free surface. Pseudostratified epithelium is also sometimes referred to as respiratory epithelium, since ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelia is mainly found in the larger respiratory airways of the nasal cavity, trachea and bronchi.

Pseudostratified columnar epithelium with stereocilia, another sub-classification, can be found in the epididymis, a highly coiled genital duct of the male. Non-ciliated pseudostratified columnar epithelia can be found in the membranous part of male vas deferens. Finally, pseudostratified columnar epithelium can also be found forming the straight, tubular glands of the endometrium in females.