What are the major roles of the villi and microvilli in the small intestine?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The villi and microvilli in the small intestine increase surface area for absorption of nutrients. The villi contain blood vessels and lymphatics that absorb nutrients, while the microvilli on the surface of the villi trap and hold nutrients in place so that the villi epithelial cells can absorb them. They do not absorb nutrients into the lymphatic system exclusively; they do not block toxins from absorption; and they do not complete the breakdown of foods into nutrients exclusively.

What Are the Major Roles of the Villi and Microvilli