Light micrograph of the intestinal mucosa in the jejunum, showing how the permanent folds (plicae circulares) are covered with innumerable finger-like processes called villi. The total surface area of the villus epithelium in the whole small intestine facing the gut lumen is about 250 square meters that provides for absorption of nutrients, and a selective barrier against toxins and harmful microorganisms. Most of the epithelial cells survive for less than a week and are continuously replaced by proliferation of stem cells located in the crypts at the base of the villi. Paraffin section, haematoxylin and eosin stain. Magnification: x22 when printed at 10cm wide. | |
Lizenzart: | Lizenzpflichtig |
Credit: | Science Photo Library / Microscape |
Bildgröße: | 5433 px × 3415 px |
Modell-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Eigentums-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Restrictions: | - |