Stratified squamous (keratinized) (Fig. 4-14a)

• Examine the epidermis on slide 36.
• Note here that the superficial layers are very thin and lack nuclei or any other structure in cells.
• These layers, composed of keratin, form as the cells differentiate and die.
• The most superficial layers are only loosely attached and are steadily lost and replaced.

What functions are served by stratified squamous keratinized epithelium?

Stratified cuboidal and transitional epithelium.