Crypts of Lieberkühn
The Crypts of Lieberkühn are small glandular structures located in the lining of the small intestine and colon. They are named after the German anatomist Johann Nathanael Lieberkühn, who described them in the 18th century. These crypts contain cells that produce intestinal juices and contribute to the absorption of nutrients.
Each crypt is lined with various types of cells, including enterocytes, which absorb nutrients, and goblet cells, which secrete mucus to protect the intestinal lining. The crypts play a crucial role in maintaining gut health and facilitating digestion by providing a surface for nutrient absorption and a barrier against pathogens.