Question

propose a hypothesis to account for the data related to the cell life spans of the lining of the esophagus,small intestine, and large intestine.

Answer 1

A hypothesis to explain the data related to the cell life spans of the lining of the esophagus, small intestine, and large intestine is that the epithelial cells in the lining of the esophagus have a shorter lifespan compared to the cells in the lining of the small and large intestines due to constant exposure to stomach acid and food particles. The cells in the lining of the small intestine have a longer lifespan to support nutrient absorption, while the cells in the lining of the large intestine have a longer lifespan to support mucus secretion and protection against bacteria.

Step-by-step explanation:

A hypothesis that could account for the data related to the cell life spans of the lining of the esophagus, small intestine, and large intestine is that the epithelial cells in the lining of the esophagus have a shorter lifespan compared to the cells in the lining of the small and large intestines. This could be due to the constant exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid and food particles, which can cause more cell damage and turnover. In contrast, the cells in the lining of the small and large intestines have a longer lifespan to support their specialized functions in nutrient absorption and protection.

For example, the small intestine has villi and microvilli that increase its surface area for nutrient absorption. The cells in the lining of the small intestine need to be able to withstand the mechanical stress and chemical environment of the intestines, hence, they have a longer lifespan. Similarly, the large intestine lacks the villi and microvilli but has a higher population of goblet cells that secrete mucus for movement of feces and protection against enteric bacteria. These goblet cells, along with the enterocytes, have a longer lifespan to support these functions.

Answer 2

Epithelial cells that need to absorb water from undigested food matter lives longer than those which are exposed to mixture of gases constantly,as compared to those which take active part in digested food absorbment,whose life is the shortest.