Enterocyte

A enterocyte (from gr έντερον " gut " and κύτος "cell", in German also Saumzelle ) is by far the most common cell of the intestinal epithelium and as such responsible for the absorption of different substances from the diet. Enterocytes are also in the colon. A enterocyte is a highly prismatic epithelial cell with about 20 microns height and a characteristic apical brush border of about 1 micron long microvilli. These cause an enormous increase in the surface and thereby allow the resorptive capabilities.

Against the lumen enterocytes are surrounded by an approximately 500 nm thick glycoprotein structure of the glycocalyx. With each other they are joined by tight junctions, which are a tight barrier against the intestinal lumen. Both in the apical than in the basal membrane are required for active transport proteins.

Among the many responsibilities of enterocytes include:

• Absorption of small molecule dietary constituents ( sugars, amino acids, fats and fatty acids, vitamins)
• Active ion transport (such as sodium, calcium, magnesium, iron ),
• Water absorption,
• Absorption of bile acids ( enterohepatic circulation )
• Secretion of immunoglobulins (IgA).

To allow the transport of substances through the cell, enterocyte have numerous specialized membrane proteins, such as Hephaestin and ferroportin.

Enterocytes can source a large portion of your energy produced on probiotics butyrate. This alternative energy supply is favored over a high-fiber food, their water- soluble fiber (eg, pectin, inulin ) serves as a nutrient for the intestinal bacteria.