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Multiple Choice

Which organ contains Paneth cells?

Paneth cells are specialized secretory cells of the small intestinal epithelium, located at the base of the crypts of Lieberkühn (especially in the ileum). They contain large eosinophilic granules rich in antimicrobial peptides like alpha-defensins and lysozyme, which they release into the crypt lumen to help control gut bacteria and protect the stem cell niche. They also contribute to the intestinal stem cell environment by secreting signaling molecules that support Lgr5+ stem cells, helping maintain gut integrity. Because of this, Paneth cells are a feature of the small intestine, whereas the stomach, large intestine, and liver do not typically contain them.

Paneth cells are specialized secretory cells of the small intestinal epithelium, located at the base of the crypts of Lieberkühn (especially in the ileum). They contain large eosinophilic granules rich in antimicrobial peptides like alpha-defensins and lysozyme, which they release into the crypt lumen to help control gut bacteria and protect the stem cell niche. They also contribute to the intestinal stem cell environment by secreting signaling molecules that support Lgr5+ stem cells, helping maintain gut integrity. Because of this, Paneth cells are a feature of the small intestine, whereas the stomach, large intestine, and liver do not typically contain them.