Final answer:
An effective method to estimate the number of enterocytes in the intestinal tract involves counting cells under a microscope using a Petroff-Hausser chamber, similar to cell-counting practices such as employing a hemocytometer for red blood cells.
Step-by-step explanation:
Estimating Enterocytes in the Intestinal Tract
To estimate the number of enterocytes or epithelial cells in the intestinal tract, approach c), counting cells under a microscope for accurate results, is a viable method. The Petroff-Hausser chamber can be employed for such a purpose, similar to how a hemocytometer is used to count red blood cells. This cell-counting technique involves transferring a known volume of a culture to the chamber and counting the cells under a light microscope. By counting individual cells in a number of squares and determining the volume observed, an estimate of the concentration of cells in the original sample can be made.
The intestinal epithelium primarily consists of enterocytes (absorptive cells) and goblet cells. Enterocytes play a critical role in water and nutrient absorption, which is greatly facilitated by the presence of microvilli on their surface. Microvilli dramatically increase the surface area for absorption within the digestive system.