Epithelial Tissue – Definition, Types, Structure, Functions Epithelial tissues cover and protect body surfaces. They line organs, form barriers, and aid absorption, secretion, and sensation. Other information about epithelial tissues have been discussed here. Epithelial Tissue An epithelial tissue or epithelium consists of cells arranged in continuous sheets, in either single or multiple layers. It covers body surfaces and lines hollow organs, body cavities, and ducts. It also forms glands. Types of Epithelial Tissue Functions of Epithelial Tissue : It protects the underlying tissue from friction and injury. It secret certain chemical substances that are utilized by the body. On the basal side, the epithelial cells are supported by a basement ... What is epithelium? Epithelial tissue or Epithelium (plural = epithelia) is a protective, continuous sheet of compactly packed cells. Epithelium covers all internal and external surfaces of our body and lines body cavities and hollow organs. The epithelium has a variety of functions depending on where it’s located in your body, including protection, secretion, sensation, and absorption. [In this image] Four examples of epithelial tissues with distinct cell morphology and functions. Epithelial tissue is one of the four main types of body tissue found in your organs and covers internal and external surfaces in your body. It has several different structures and functions depending on where it is in your body.