Which of the following pairs tissue types with their primary function?

Epithelial tissue is primarily responsible for protection, which is why the pairing of epithelial tissue with its function is correct. Epithelial tissue forms the outer layer of the skin and lines various cavities and organs within the body, serving a critical role in acting as a barrier against mechanical injury, pathogens, and chemical exposure. Its protective function also extends to regulating what substances can enter or leave the body.

The other options reflect misunderstandings of the primary functions of the respective tissue types. For example, nervous tissue is primarily involved in communication through the transmission of nerve impulses, muscle tissue is responsible for movement, and connective tissue plays roles such as support and transport, but not primarily secretion. This context helps clarify the significance of epithelial tissue's protective role in the body.