Histochemical and electron microscopical studies on the epithelium of the fetal colon with special reference to the occurrence of lipids

Summary Absorbing cells of the colon of 28 human fetuses were studied histochemically while 4 were studied ultrastructurally. Cellular ultrastructure included: microvilli with a fuzz, typically lateral specializations, small mitochondria placed at the peripheral part of the cells, apically placed lysosomes, basally placed lipid droplets and disperse accumulations of glycogen. Only a slight pinocytosis was observed and the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus were only poorly developed. Comparing the enzymatic findings with the ultrastructural findings, it is suggested that some absorption may take place in the fetal large intestine. It is further considered whether an intracellular synthesis of lipids may occur.This study has been supported by a grant from the Association of the Aid of the Crippled Children, New York.