Table 2

Summary of effects of microflora and fibre on colonic parameters

Parameter Effect of microflora Effect of fibre Interaction
CryptsIncreased; p < 0.001
Surface goblet cellsDecreased; p < 0.001
Crypt goblet cellsIncreased; p < 0.05Increased; p < 0.001
Total goblet cellsIncreased; p < 0.05Increased; p < 0.001p < 0.001
Myenteric plexusDecreased; p < 0.05
Muscle nuclei outerIncreased; p < 0.05Decreased; p < 0.01
LengthIncreased; p < 0.001
Crypt branching 10%Increased; p < 0.01
Crypt branching 50%Decreased; p < 0.001