Male Small Intestine Section

Description

A cross section of the male small intestine, cut to expose the internal mucosal surface covered with villi. The circular folds (plicae circulares) project into the lumen, and the four wall layers, mucosa with villi, submucosa, muscularis, and serosa, are visible at the cut edge. The villi give the small intestinal lumen its velvety appearance and multiply the absorptive surface dramatically. Each villus contains a central lacteal for fat absorption and a capillary network for nutrient transport into the bloodstream. Between the villi, the crypts of Lieberkühn produce new epithelial cells and secrete digestive enzymes. Small intestinal cross sections are standard teaching models in histology and gastroenterology. Medical advisory board reviewed. Clean geometry for rendering, real-time, and 3D printing.