Lieberkühn's glands

Lieberkühn's glands (also called intestinal crypts) are small depressions in the intestinal lining that contain cells that secrete mucus and enzymes. They play an important role in protecting the intestinal mucosa from bacteria and other harmful substances, as well as in the digestion of food.

Lieberkühn's glands were first described by the German anatomist and histologist Karl Friedrich von Rokitan in 1882. He named them after the German pathologist and histologist Johann Jakob Lieberkühn, who first described them.

Intestinal crypts are depressions in the intestinal wall that open onto the intestinal surface. They range in length from a few millimeters to several centimeters and contain many glands that secrete mucus and digestive enzymes. These glands are called Lieberkühn's glands.

The functions of the Lieberkühn glands include protecting the intestinal mucosa from the penetration of bacteria, as well as ensuring normal digestion. The mucus secreted by the glands protects the mucous membrane from damage and promotes its regeneration. Enzymes secreted by the glands help break down food and absorb nutrients.

In addition, Lieberkühn's glands are involved in the regulation of the intestinal immune system. They secrete substances that stimulate the growth and differentiation of immune system cells such as lymphocytes and macrophages. This helps protect the intestines from infections and other pathogens.

Although Lieberkühn's glands are an important part of the intestinal system, they can be susceptible to various diseases. For example, dysfunction of the Lieberkühn glands can lead to the development of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Thus, Lieberkühn's glands play an important role in the functioning of the intestine and protecting it from pathogenic factors. They are also involved in regulating the immune response and digestion.