Squamous epithelial cells are found in the inner lining of

Squamous epithelial cells are found in the inner lining of

Oesophagus.
Small intestine.
Ducts of salivary gland.
Kidney.
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2021
The correct answer is A) Oesophagus. The inner lining (mucosa) of the oesophagus in mammals is composed of non-keratinized stratified squamous epithelium.
– Squamous epithelium is characterized by flattened cells.
– Stratified squamous epithelium consists of multiple layers of squamous cells and is found in locations requiring protection against abrasion.
– The oesophagus is a tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach, and its lining is subject to friction from food passage, making stratified squamous epithelium suitable.
– The small intestine is lined with simple columnar epithelium with microvilli, adapted for absorption.
– Ducts of salivary glands are typically lined with cuboidal or columnar epithelium.
– The kidney contains various epithelial types; Bowman’s capsule has simple squamous epithelium, while kidney tubules are lined with cuboidal epithelium. The oesophagus is a classic example of a lumen’s inner lining being primarily composed of stratified squamous epithelium.