Mitochondria
Mitochondrial are often localized to regions of the cell where energy demands are high, such as the apical region of these intestinal lining cells. In this location, they provide energy for active transport of nutrients and maintenance of the barrier that excludes pathogens. 500x
Intestinal villi >
The lining of the small intestine has numerous finger-like extensions that increase surface area for absorption.
Intestinal epithelium >
The intestinal epithelium consists of a single row of tall (columnar) cells with oval nuclei. Mitochondria are highly clustered in the apical regions for localized energy demands. Also present in the epithelium are mucus-secreting goblet cells.
- Nuclei
The intestinal epithelium consists of a single row of tall (columnar) cells with oval nuclei. Mitochondria are highly clustered in the apical regions for localized energy demands. Also present in the epithelium are mucus-secreting goblet cells.
- Mitochondria
The intestinal epithelium consists of a single row of tall (columnar) cells with oval nuclei. Mitochondria are highly clustered in the apical regions for localized energy demands. Also present in the epithelium are mucus-secreting goblet cells.
- Goblet cells
The intestinal epithelium consists of a single row of tall (columnar) cells with oval nuclei. Mitochondria are highly clustered in the apical regions for localized energy demands. Also present in the epithelium are mucus-secreting goblet cells.
Connective tissue >
The core of each villus consists of loose connective tissue called the lamina propria.
Image source >
These images were taken of a slide in the University of Cincinnati collection.