In: Biology
The esophageal lining is protected by a stratified squamous epithelium. Because this epithelium is normally not exposed to dryness or to abrasion, it is non-keratinized. A well-developed muscularis provides peristaltic propulsion of food. (Even when upside down, the esophagus can push food and drink to the stomach.) The esophagus conveys food from the pharynx to the stomach by means of peristaltic waves which begin as a result of the swallowing reflex.
The mucosa of the small intestine is lined by a simple columnar epithelium which consists primarily of absorptive cells (enterocytes), with scattered goblet cells and occasional enteroendocrine cells. In crypts, the epithelium also includes Paneth cells and stem cells.
The entire luminal surface of the small intestine has villi, small projections of mucosa. The villi are lined with simple columnar epithelial cells, also called enterocytes. The cells are tall with middle to basal nuclei and have an apical brush border, also known as microvilli. The small intestine is good for absorption since it has a large inner surface area due to presence of villi and microvilli.