Deep in tiny pockets of your small intestine live precious stem cells. Paneth cells stand guard beside them and keep germs away.
Drag to turn it around. Use the buttons to zoom in and try things from the lessons.
The 3D model can't load right now. Check your internet connection, or try a different web browser.
The lining of your small intestine has tiny pockets called crypts. Paneth cells live right at the bottom of each crypt.
A Paneth cell is shaped a bit like a pyramid. Its top is full of big, bright bubbles. Squeezed in between the Paneth cells are stem cells, which make new lining cells.
Paneth cells are named after Joseph Paneth, a scientist who described them more than 100 years ago.
The bright bubbles hold germ-fighting proteins. Paneth cells squirt them into the crypt to keep harmful bacteria away.
That matters because the stem cells next door keep making new cells for your whole gut lining. Paneth cells also send helpful signals that keep the stem cells healthy.
Scroll up to the 3D model and press Guard! to see the germ fighters fill the crypt.