T. Clark Brelje, Ph.D.
University of Minnesota
Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development
6-160 Jackson Hall
321 Church St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
Robert L. Sorenson, Ph.D.
University of Minnesota
Department of Genetics, Cell Biology and Development
6-160 Jackson Hall
321 Church St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
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The lumenal surface of the small intestine is covered by a simple columnar epithelium with goblet cells.
Goblet Cells
Goblet Cell (center; dark green) secrete mucins (main component of mucus). Their goblet shape is due to secretion granules expanding the apical regio of the cells
Secretion Granules (purple) - large, densely packed in the apical region of the cell.
Golgi Apparatus (yellow) - well-developed in this secretory cell.
The lumenal surface of the small intestine is covered by a simple columnar epithelium with goblet cells.
Surface Absorptive Cells (Enterocytes)
Surface Absorptive cells (enterocytes; light green) - transport molecules from the intestinal lumen across the epithelium.
Microvilli (green) - thin extensions that increase the surface area of the apical membrane.
Terminal Bar - junctional complex of tight junctions (zonula occludens), zonula adherens and desmosomes (maculae adherens).
Mitochondria (red) - provide energy for the transport of molecules.
The lateral plasma membranes of adjacent cells have extensive interdigitations.
Basal Lamina (dark purple) - thin, fuzzy line that separates the epithelium from the underlying connective tissue. A network of reticular collagen IV fibrils.