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SEM of villi in the small intestine
Small intestine. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) showing the villi of the small intestine. Villi are the finger-like projections from the intestinal wall which greatly increase the absorptive surface of this part of the digestive system. The villi's epithelium contains cells involved in the digestion and absorption of food. The villi also secrete mucus to aid the movement of food through the intestines. The small intestine is around 4 metres long, providing a large surface area for effective food absorption. Magnification: x100 at 6x6cm size.
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