Jejunal

Jejunal refers to anything related to the jejunum, the middle section of the small intestine in humans and most higher vertebrates, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. It is located between the duodenum and the ileum. The jejunum and ileum are suspended in the abdominal cavity by the mesentery, a part of the peritoneum.

Structure

The jejunum is about 2.5 meters long in adults and is larger in diameter than the ileum. Its lining is specialized for the absorption by enterocytes of small nutrient particles which have been previously digested by enzymes in the duodenum.

Function

The main function of the jejunum is the absorption of important nutrients such as sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids. The lining of the jejunum is covered in projections called villi, which increase the surface area of tissue available to absorb nutrients from the gut contents.

Clinical significance

Diseases of the jejunum can have serious health impacts. These include Crohn's disease, a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, and celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder that can cause damage to the lining of the small intestine when foods with gluten are eaten.

See also

• Digestive system
• Gastroenterology

References

Jejunal Resources
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