histology, epithelium, crypts of Lieberkuhn, gastrointestinal tract, gastrointestinal system, colon, large bowel, art, anatomy, art in anatomy, Ashley Davidoff MD

Crypts of Lieberkuhn of the Colon

The intestinal glands of the colon (aka  crypts of Lieberkühn ) are infoldings of the mucosa and submucosa of the large intestine.  The formation of these folds create an infinitely larger surface area to facilitate optimal colonic function. The cells of the epithelium absorb water and electrolytes, and secrete mucus.

The image shows the histology of the crypts.  They appear as folds of single layer of columnar epithelial cells some of which contain droplets of mucin.

Description

The intestinal glands of the colon (aka  crypts of Lieberkühn ) are infoldings of the mucosa and submucosa of the large intestine.  The formation of these folds create an infinitely larger surface area to facilitate optimal colonic function. The cells of the epithelium absorb water and electrolytes, and secrete mucus.

The image shows the histology of the crypts.  They appear as folds of single layer of columnar epithelial cells some of which contain droplets of mucin.