Enterocytes
Enterocytes
Enterocytes (pronounced: en-ter-o-cytes, /ɛnˈtɛrəˌsaɪts/) are the primary type of cell found in the epithelium of the small intestine. They play a crucial role in the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system.
Etymology
The term "enterocyte" is derived from the Greek words "enteron" meaning intestine, and "kytos" meaning cell.
Function
Enterocytes are responsible for the final digestion of peptides and sugars that the body uses for energy. They also absorb these nutrients and pass them into the bloodstream. Enterocytes have a brush border of microvilli, which increase the surface area for absorption.
Structure
Enterocytes are columnar epithelial cells. They have a unique structure with a brush border of microvilli on the surface facing the lumen of the intestine. This structure increases the surface area for absorption.
Related Terms
- Epithelium: The thin tissue forming the outer layer of a body's surface and lining the alimentary canal and other hollow structures.
- Microvilli: Microscopic cellular membrane protrusions that increase the surface area for absorption.
- Small Intestine: The part of the intestine where 90% of the digestion and absorption of food occurs.
- Peptides: Short chains of amino acid monomers linked by peptide bonds.
- Sugars: Any of the class of soluble, crystalline, typically sweet-tasting carbohydrates found in living tissues.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Enterocytes
- Wikipedia's article - Enterocytes
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