epithelial

American  

[ep-uh-thee-lee-uhl] / ˌɛp əˈθi li əl /

adjective

1. Biology. being or relating to an epithelium, any tissue that lines a cavity or covers a surface in an animal or plant.

   Cheek epithelial cells are often studied in school labs as they are easily obtained through a mouth rinse or swab.

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Other Word Forms

• interepithelial adjective
• nonepithelial adjective
• subepithelial adjective
• unepithelial adjective

Etymology

Origin of epithelial

First recorded in 1935–40; epitheli(um) ( def. ) + -al ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

The new research shows that groups of epithelial cells, which form the surfaces of many tissues, can achieve an even greater sensing range.

From Science Daily

The scientists also found significant changes in epithelial cells that line the lungs and the tiny air sacs responsible for breathing.

From Science Daily

The epithelial cells have the ability to constrict to change the absorption of light, controlling the subject’s color and texture on a cell-by-bell basis.

From Literature

"They're able to absorb nutrients better. They have much less inflammation. When irritated or injured, their epithelial lining is able to regenerate and heal much faster."

From Science Daily

In a study published in Cell Stem Cell, scientists tested retinal pigment epithelial stem cells in a phase 1/2a clinical trial.

From Science Daily