Quantitative morphological methods in intestinal research

Measurements of intestinal length suffer from considerable errors, because of variable degrees of contraction in the longitudinal muscles. In vitro organ bath techniques may solve these problems. Villi and microvilli amplify the internal surface area; measurements of the amplification factors should be based on stereological methods. Villus height and crypt length provide information on mucosal net growth; such data might be useful when studying hypertrophic and hypotrophic conditions. More precise knowledge on cell turn-over requires autoradiographic studies of 3H-thymidine incorporation into nuclei cell. Ultimately, stereological analyses of mucosal components and cell structures will supply detailed information needed for cell biological research.