An integrated model for intestinal development in the fetal sheep.

The interrelationships between 22 parameters relating to small intestinal morphology and enterocyte cell kinetics were investigated. It was found that all significant correlations could be related to changes in intestinal diameter. The area of accessory and mucosal coats in cross section was computed and a constancy of relative composition, independent of experimental perturbation, was noted. It appears likely that despite seemingly trophic responses in specific tissue components, an overall balance of these components is maintained in the developing intestine. The need to develop integrated models of gut structure and function to allow adequate interpretation of results is discussed.