[Functional morphology of the surface epithelium of esophageal tunica mucosa].

This review presents the systematized summary of classical and current conceptions on the functional morphology of the surface epithelium of esophageal tunica mucosa. The data describing the architecture of epithelial lining, classification and structure of its layers, are presented. The detailed characteristics of the cells of each layer and their ultrastructure, organization of germinal compartment, stem cell distribution and activity as related to their topography, are presented. The parameters of epitheliocyte cell cycle, mechanisms controlling their proliferation and circadian rhythms by growth factors and hormones, changes of proliferation activity under natural, pathological and experimental conditions, are discussed. The process of epithelial desquamation is described, as well as a mucus layer covering the epithelial surface together with its sources and protective role. The characteristics of the process of epitheliocyte apoptosis and the mechanisms of its control in normal and pathological states, are presented.