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The microvillus in adult jejunal mucosa--an electron microscopic study
Abstract:
The increase in surface area contributed by microvilli per square unit mucosal surface area in the jejunal villus, i.e. amplification factor, has been studied in four normal adults and three adults with treated coeliac disease. Villi were split into three regions, photomicrographs of microvilli were taken from each region and the microvillus amplification factor calculated. The mid-villus region contributed a significantly greater microvillus amplification factor than either the low or upper regions in all patients studied. In addition surface cell heights were greatest in the low- and mid-villus regions. This suggests that the enterocytes in the mid-villus region are best adapted for absorption, and that the enterocytes in the upper-villus regions are undergoing an ageing process.
Insights
The jejunal villus amplification factor, a measure of absorptive surface area, is highest in the mid-villus region. This indicates optimal nutrient absorption occurs in the mid-villus, while upper villi show signs of aging.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- The jejunal villus amplification factor quantifies the increased surface area provided by microvilli.
- Understanding regional differences in microvilli is crucial for assessing absorptive capacity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the microvillus amplification factor in different regions of the jejunal villus.
- To compare these factors between normal adults and those with treated coeliac disease.
Main Methods:
- Villi were divided into three regions: low, mid, and upper.
- Photomicrographs of microvilli were captured from each region.
- The microvillus amplification factor was calculated for each region.
Main Results:
- The mid-villus region demonstrated a significantly higher microvillus amplification factor compared to low and upper regions.
- Enterocyte cell heights were greatest in the low- and mid-villus regions.
Conclusions:
- Enterocytes in the mid-villus region are optimally adapted for absorption.
- Enterocytes in the upper-villus region appear to be undergoing an aging process.