Which type of tissue forms the lining of the uterus during the menstrual cycle?

The lining of the uterus during the menstrual cycle is formed by epithelial tissue, specifically a type called endometrium. Epithelial tissue is specialized for protection, secretion, and absorption, and in the case of the uterus, it plays an essential role in supporting the fertilized ovum and in the menstrual cycle itself.

During the menstrual cycle, the endometrium undergoes cyclical changes in response to hormonal stimuli, thickening in preparation for a potential pregnancy and shedding if fertilization does not occur. The structure and functionality of epithelial tissue are critical to this process, making it the correct answer. Moreover, the other types of tissue do not serve this specific role in the uterus: connective tissue supports and binds other tissues, muscle tissue is responsible for movement, and nervous tissue transmits signals, none of which are directly responsible for forming the uterine lining.