Question

1.State five adaptive features of the ileum

2.Briefly describe digestion of lipids in the duodenum

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

1.

a) Villi: The ileum is lined with numerous finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.
b) Microvilli: Each villus is covered in microscopic projections called microvilli, which further increase the surface area available for absorption.
c) Goblet cells: These cells secrete mucus that helps lubricate and protect the lining of the ileum.
d) Peyer's patches: These are clusters of immune cells located in the ileum that help protect against pathogens.
e) Circular folds: The inner lining of the ileum contains circular folds known as plicae circulares, which help increase the surface area for absorption.

2.

In the duodenum, lipids are emulsified by bile salts secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. Emulsification breaks down large lipid droplets into smaller droplets, making it easier for lipase enzymes to access and break down the lipids. Lipase enzymes, produced by the pancreas, then break down the lipids into fatty acids and monoglycerides. These smaller lipid molecules are then absorbed by the intestinal villi and enter the bloodstream for transport to cells throughout the body.