In situ structure of intestinal apical surface reveals nanobristles on microvilli.

Abstract in brief

• The study uses advanced imaging techniques to reveal nanometer-sized bristles, called nanobristles, on the surface of microvilli in both C. elegans and mouse intestines, which are crucial for functions like absorption and sensation.
• Nanobristles are dependent on a specific protein called CDH8 in C. elegans, and their absence leads to slower growth and abnormal microvilli structures, indicating their role in proper microvilli organization.
• The findings suggest that nanobristles help separate individual microvilli and may be involved in the division process of microvilli, contributing to the formation of uniform and functional intestinal microvilli.]