Well, there lots of shapes, but three common forms are cuboidal shaped cells (which are like cubes), squamous cells (which are like cuboidal except flattened), and then there are columnar cells (which are shaped like columns).
As for the flattened cells that are important for protection, this is clearly referring to squamous epithelial cells. Every lumen of our bodies has a layer of epithelium surrounding it, partly for protection. The cells of these layers can be a variety of shapes, but squamous is common. Skin, for example, is squamous epithelial tissue. And yes, these cells fit together like tiles, so their shape is very important to the barrier function they serve. Epithelial cells can form different kinds of junctions between each other. One type, called a 'tight junction', causes the cells to bind to each other extremely closely.
Epithelial cells
epithelial cells
Squamous epithelium look like flattened cells that fit together like tiles.
By fitting together, they provide an effective barrier against bacteria and other things that could cause harm if they got inside the body.
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Epithelial cells
epithelial cells
Squamous epithelium look like flattened cells that fit together like tiles.
Cells can have different shapes to serve specific functions. For example, flat cells are well-suited for covering surfaces and allowing for the exchange of materials, while long and elongated cells like muscle cells are ideal for producing movement. Irregularly shaped cells such as dendritic cells have extensions that enhance their ability to capture foreign particles and present them to other immune cells for recognition. Ultimately, cell shape is intricately linked to its function within the organism.
Epithelial cells have several functions. They line, protect, and form different glands. Epithelial cells have three shapes: flattened, cube, and elongated.
Microglia
By fitting together, they provide an effective barrier against bacteria and other things that could cause harm if they got inside the body.
Stratified squamous epithelium
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Organs
The portion of the skin that is composed of nonliving cells is the stratum corneum. This outer layer of the epidermis consists of flattened keratinocytes that are no longer viable but provide protection for the underlying layers of the skin.
chloroplast