AB2.H1.2 +D1 +D2 Oral Cavity and Tongue

Oral Cavity and Tongue:

Questions:

    Look at the composite image of the epithelial cells of the tongue:
    Why is the epithelium on the superior surface (a) thicker and (b) more roughened than the epithelium on the inferior surface of the tongue?
    What type of tissue lies deep to the epithelium (and stained red)?
    What other type of tissue is shown in this composite image?

Epithelial Covering of Tongue:

    Tongue
  • This composite image shows the epithelial covering on the superior (S) and inferior (I) surfaces of the tongue
  • The tongue and oral cavity are covered with a stratified, squamous non keratinizing epithelium
  • However, notice that the epithelial covering of the superior surface of the tongue (the surface you lick with) is much thicker than the epithelium found on the inferior surface
  • Also note the smooth outer surface on the inferior side of the tongue, whereas the superior (licking) side is roughened

Micrograph of Papillae of the Tongue:

    Papillae
  • This micrograph shows papillae that project from the superior surface of the tongue
  • The pale ovoid cellular structures in the side wall of the papillae are taste buds