HP8 Ciliated Epithelium
Question:
- Micrograph e shows a ciliated epithelium
- This was taken from the trachea where the role of the cilia is to remove mucus from the upper respiratory tract
- In some individuals, the cilia are non-functional/weakly functional due to a genetically based disorder
- In heavy smokers, the cilia may become damaged and ineffective
- Inability/reduced ability to remove mucus from respiratory tract
- Mucus in the respiratory tract plays an important part in the humidifying of the air drawn into the lungs and the trapping of dirt and other particles, including bacteria which are then removed from the respiratory tract by the action of cilia
- Mucus is continuously produced and if it cannot be removed by ciliary action then it will accumulate as static pools
- As mucus provides a medium in which bacteria can multiply respiratory infections can be established - pneumonia
Answer:
