Intestinal epithelium
The intestinal epithelium is the single cell layer that form the luminal surface (lining) of both the small and large intestine (colon) of the gastrointestinal tract. Composed of simple columnar epithelial cells, it serves two main functions: absorbing useful substances into the body and restricting the entry of harmful substances. As part of its protective role, the intestinal epithelium forms an important component of the intestinal mucosal barrier. Certain diseases and conditions are caused by functional defects in the intestinal epithelium. On the other hand, various diseases and conditions can lead to its dysfunction which, in turn, can lead to further complications.
| Intestinal epithelium | |
|---|---|
Simple columnar epithelial cells | |
| Identifiers | |
| MeSH | D007413 |
| FMA | 15695 17229, 15695 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
| This article is part of a series on |
| Epithelia |
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| Squamous epithelial cell |
| Columnar epithelial cell |
| Cuboidal epithelial cell |
| Specialised epithelia |
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| Other |
| This article is one of a series on the |
| Gastrointestinal wall |
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