Lingual Epidermal Cells (LiEC)

Primary lingual epidermal cells are the cells that make up the outermost layer of the tongue, known as the lingual epithelium. These cells play a key role in protecting the tongue from mechanical damage, microbial invasion, and dehydration. They are also involved in taste sensation and contain taste buds that detect different flavors. Additionally, lingual epithelial cells play a role in the formation of filiform papillae, which are small, cone-shaped structures on the surface of the tongue that give it its rough texture.