Which of the following is NOT a function of epithelial tissue?

Epithelial tissue serves several vital functions in the body, primarily including secretion, absorption, and protection.

Secretion refers to the process where epithelial cells produce and release substances such as hormones, enzymes, and mucus. This function is critical in glandular epithelium, which forms glands responsible for various physiological processes.

Absorption is another key role of epithelial tissue, particularly in areas like the intestines, where epithelium facilitates the uptake of nutrients and other molecules into the body.

Protection is also a fundamental function; epithelial tissue forms a barrier that protects underlying tissues from mechanical injury, pathogens, and fluid loss. This is especially evident in skin epithelium, which provides a robust external layer.

In contrast, contractility is not a characteristic of epithelial tissue. Instead, it is associated with muscle tissue, which is specialized for contraction and movement. Epithelial cells do not possess the ability to contract; their primary role is to cover and line structures, as well as to perform secretion and absorption functionalities. Thus, identifying contractility as not a function of epithelial tissue reinforces the understanding of the unique roles different tissue types play in the body.