The small intestine is the site of digestion and absorption of nutrients. A single layer of epithelial cells lines the small intestine. In the duodenum the first section of the small intestine), these epithelial cells secrete large quantities of digestive enzymes. Which of the following features would be typical of these epithelial cells?
A) They have larger nuclei than cells that secrete large quantities of lipids.
B) They have more smooth endoplasmic reticulum than rough endoplasmic reticulum.
C) They contain large numbers of lysosomes.
D) They contain large quantities of rough endoplasmic reticulum.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The epithelial cells in the duodenum secrete large quantities of digestive enzymes, which are proteins. Therefore, they would have large quantities of rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is the organelle responsible for protein synthesis and processing. Cells that secrete large quantities of lipids would have more smooth endoplasmic reticulum, which is specialized for lipid synthesis and processing. Large nuclei and lysosomes are not specific features of these types of epithelial cells.

The Small Intestine Is the Site of Digestion and Absorption