DEEP WORK

Transepithelial transport mechanismsTransfer of substances across the intestinal epithelium can occur through either the transcellular route or the paracellular route. Paracellular transport is thought to be due to diffusion and solvent drag. The solvent drag hypothesis has been proposed by Pappenheimer (1993), and predicts that sugars and amino acids may, in part, be transported paracellularly...

IntroductionThe intestinal epithelium is a single cell layer protecting the organism against harmful agents in the lumen, and at the same time it is a site for nutrient, water and ion uptake. Integrity of the barrier and uptake mechanisms is crucial for the health and growth of the animal. However, many internal and external factors can influence the epithelium in both harmful and beneficial way..