Question

Hello, can someone please explain what would be the effect of having stratified epithelium in the alveoli?

Answer 1

• The alveoli are the site of the respiratory diffusion of gases between the capillaries and alveoli.
• So there should be a single layer of epithelium that covers alveoli and capillaries to produce maximum diffusion.
• While the stratified epithelium has multiple layers and prevent the diffusion of the gases.
• Usually, stratified epithelium acts as mechanical support not diffusion boundary due to the presence of several epithelial layers.
• These layers can also be keratinized which prevents the transport of any substances.
• Thus when the alveoli are covered by stratified epithelium diffusion will not occur and thus the body will be in hypoxia condition.