Esophageal epithelial cell

Esophageal epithelial cells form a multi-layered, non-keratinized (in humans) stratified squamous epithelium that lines the inner surface of the esophagus. They primarily function as a physical barrier, protecting underlying tissues from mechanical, chemical, and biological injury, and play a key role in esophageal repair and regeneration after damage or disease. Basal cells in this layer act as progenitor cells, maintaining homeostasis through balanced proliferation and differentiation. These epithelial cells are crucial in diseases such as esophageal cancer, metaplasia (Barrett’s esophagus), and inflammatory conditions

Other names

Esophageal squamous epithelial cellEsophageal epitheliumEsophagus lining epithelial cell