[Endocrine cells in the mucosal epithelium of the porcine large intestine].

Using the methods of light and electron microscopy, mucosal epithelium in the colon of adult pigs was studied with special reference to the amount and distribution of endocrine cells. The total amount of endocrine cells tended to increase caudally. Four types of these cells were demonstrated including EC, L, D and D1. The proportion of EC-cells was found to fall from cranial segments of the colon to caudal ones. According to the results of ultrastructural analysis, endocrine cells in the mucosal epithelium of porcine colon, as well as the cells of the adjacent tissues, are in the state of functional exertion.