Figure 1.

ISC divisions are most often functionally asymmetric, yielding one differentiated cell (EC: enterocyte) and one new stem cell (middle). But ISCs can also duplicate (left) or be lost when both progeny of a division differentiate. The balance between these behaviours determines whether the intestinal epithelium will grow, shrink, or maintain exact homeostasis. This balance can change, depending on the needs of the organ and organism.