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Epithelial Tissue: Simple Columnar

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High-magnification light micrograph depicting simple columnar epithelium. Epithelial cells are cuboidal to columnar with basally located, ovoid nuclei. The lumen is outlined by the apical borders of the cells. Infiltration by lymphocytes and other immune cells is visible in adjacent connective tissue (lamina propria). Hematoxylin and eosin stain with pink cytoplasm and purple nuclei.
Figure 1: Columnar epithelial cells lining a small intestine section, stained pink. Cells are tall with basal nuclei. Lymphocytes adjacent.

Simple columnar epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue characterized by a single layer of tall, column-shaped cells. These cells are taller than they are wide, with nuclei typically located near the base of the cell. Simple columnar epithelium is found in areas where absorption, secretion, and protection are important functions.

Illustration of the cross-section of the small intestine showing circular folds (plicae circulares) and a close-up of two villi with simple columnar cells lining the lumen.
Illustration of the cross-section of the small intestine showing circular folds (plicae circulares) and a close-up of two villi with simple columnar cells lining the lumen.

Cell Shape

The cells are columnar in shape, with nuclei usually located near the basal region of the cell. This shape allows for efficient absorption and secretion of substances.

Layering

This type of epithelia has only one layer of these cells.

Function

Simple columnar epithelium is involved in absorption, secretion, and protection in various organs and tissues. Columnar epithelial cells line the gastrointestinal tract, especially in the small intestine. These cells are specialized for absorbing nutrients from digested food into the bloodstream. Columnar epithelial cells in the stomach lining (gastric glands) secrete mucus and gastric juices that aid in digestion. In regions where the gastrointestinal tract is not involved in absorption or secretion, simple columnar epithelium provides a protective barrier. It guards against mechanical damage and pathogens.

Locations

Simple columnar epithelium lines most of the digestive tract. This includes the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. It is involved in absorption, secretion, and protection. It lines parts of the respiratory tract, such as the bronchioles. Here, it helps move mucus and particles out of the airways. In the female reproductive system, simple columnar epithelium lines the uterine tubes (fallopian tubes) and the uterus.

Specializations

Simple columnar epithelial cells may have microvilli or cilia on their apical surface, depending on their specific function and location. Microvilli increase the surface area for absorption, while cilia help in the movement of mucus and particles.
Stratified squamous epithelium is a type of epithelial tissue. It is characterized by multiple layers of cells. Cells in the upper layers are flattened and scale-like (squamous). Cells in the deeper layers are more cuboidal or columnar. This epithelium is well-suited for providing protection against mechanical stress, abrasion, and pathogens. 

Histological slide (stained pink) of a large intestine cross-section. The lumen is lined with simple columnar epithelium. Below, the submucosa shows connective tissue and some adipose cells. Muscle layers are also visible deeper within the section. The composition is slightly irregular, possibly artifactual.
Figure 2: Cross-section of large intestine under microscope. The epithelial tissue is at the top of the slice of tissue.
Full-frame, microscopic view of a large intestine tissue sample. The corrugated surface is covered by a densely packed layer of simple columnar epithelium, stained in shades of purple and pink. Below this, the image reveals connective tissue, fat cells, and striated muscle fibers stained in varying intensities of pink. The remaining slide field appears white.
Figure 3: Microscopic view of large intestine tissue with simple columnar epithelium lining the lumen.
Photomicrograph of simple columnar epithelium from the large intestine stained with hematoxylin and eosin appearing purple. The image shows elongated columnar cells arranged in a parallel fashion forming tubular structures. Oval shaped nuclei are regularly distributed within the lower portion of cells. A layer of microvilli covers the tissue's surface.
Figure 4: Simple columnar epithelium of the large intestine under a microscope. Deep crypts contain many lightly colored mucus cells.

Figure 1:Small Intestine Slide 029
Figures 2 through 4: Large Intestine Slide 176
All by University of Michigan Histology, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 3.0.

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General Information
Simple Squamous
Stratified Squamous
Simple Cuboidal
Stratified Cuboidal
Simple Columnar
Stratified Columnar
Transitional
Pseudostratified Ciliated Columnar

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