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Coloured SEM of epithelial cells in the oesophagus
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Coloured SEM of epithelial cells in the oesophagus
Oesophagus epithelium. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of the epithelium (lining) of the oesophagus. The roughly rectangular epithelial cells have a highly folded surface. These tiny folds are called microplicae (orange). The flattened cells form a stratified squamous epithelium many layers thick. As a muscular non- absorptive tube, the oesophagus transports swallowed food to the stomach. The microplicae keep the oesophagus moist, trap mucus to lubricate passing food and protect the epithelium from food abrasion. Magnification unknown
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Media ID 6450835
© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Digestion Digestive System Epithelium Microplicae Mucosa Oesophagus
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This print showcases the intricate beauty of epithelial cells in the oesophagus. The coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) reveals a close-up view of the lining, known as the epithelium, which consists of roughly rectangular cells with a highly folded surface. These folds, called microplicae and depicted in orange, play a crucial role in maintaining the functionality of the oesophagus. The stratified squamous epithelium seen here is composed of multiple layers of flattened cells. As a muscular tube responsible for transporting swallowed food to the stomach, it requires special adaptations to ensure its smooth functioning. The microplicae serve several purposes: they keep the oesophagus moist, trap mucus that lubricates passing food particles, and protect the delicate epithelial layer from abrasion caused by food movement. While this image does not specify its magnification level, it highlights an essential aspect of human anatomy and digestion. By shedding light on microscopic structures within our bodies like these squamous epithelial cells and their unique features such as microplicae formation, we gain a deeper understanding of how our digestive system functions. This remarkable photograph serves as both an educational tool and an artistic representation capturing nature's complexity at its finest. It reminds us that even at such minuscule scales, there is extraordinary beauty waiting to be discovered within ourselves.
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