The Gut Flashcards
What are the types of cell within the guy?
Epithelial cells, leukocytes & fibroblasts, nerve cells and smooth muscle cells.
Describe the first layer of the gut wall (epithelial cell) and it’s functions.
It is a selectively permeable barrier. It has a apical surface containing transport proteins which absorb nutrients, which also have microvilli that extend from it.
The cell is polarised because the apical side interacts with the Guy Lumen, and the opposite side contains basolateral transport proteins. This side interacts with the rest of the Gut Wall.
Describe the second layer of he Gut Wall (fibroblasts and leukocytes) which makes up the section underneath he epithelial cells.
Fibroblasts secrete molecules that form the extra cellular matrix.
Leukocytes are involved in defence against pathogens.
Describe the third layer of cells (nerve cells) which make up the Gut Wall.
Clumps of nerve cells live in the wall known as Ganglia.
They convey information to other cells.
Describe the fourth (smooth-muscle cells) layer of cells which makes up the Gut a Wall.
Smooth-muscle cells contract, creating movement called peristalsis.
Gap Junctions allow electrical and chemical communication.
