Podcast
Questions and Answers
In what part of the small intestine does most nutrient absorption take place?
In what part of the small intestine does most nutrient absorption take place?
- Esophagus
- Colon
- Duodenum and jejunum (correct)
- Ileum
Which of the following is the primary function of bile salts in fat digestion?
Which of the following is the primary function of bile salts in fat digestion?
- Converting large fat globules into a lipid emulsion (correct)
- Absorbing fatty acids directly into the bloodstream
- Hydrolyzing triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol
- Transporting chylomicrons into the lymphatic system
How are chylomicrons transported from the intestinal cells?
How are chylomicrons transported from the intestinal cells?
- Directly into the bloodstream via capillaries
- Into the lymphatic system (correct)
- Via the hepatic portal system to the liver
- Through the intestinal lumen
What is the main role of the large intestine in digestion?
What is the main role of the large intestine in digestion?
What stimulates the defecation reflex?
What stimulates the defecation reflex?
Which of the following transport mechanisms requires energy to move substances across the intestinal cell membrane?
Which of the following transport mechanisms requires energy to move substances across the intestinal cell membrane?
What is the role of the Na+/K+ pump in carbohydrate absorption?
What is the role of the Na+/K+ pump in carbohydrate absorption?
Which of the following best describes the role of lacteals in nutrient absorption?
Which of the following best describes the role of lacteals in nutrient absorption?
How does the absorption of calcium and iron differ from the absorption of other nutrients in the small intestine?
How does the absorption of calcium and iron differ from the absorption of other nutrients in the small intestine?
What is the primary source of intestinal gases?
What is the primary source of intestinal gases?
Which of the following is a characteristic of the colon's absorption process?
Which of the following is a characteristic of the colon's absorption process?
In the context of fat absorption, what is the fate of excess chylomicrons (CMs) after delivering lipid components to tissues?
In the context of fat absorption, what is the fate of excess chylomicrons (CMs) after delivering lipid components to tissues?
In the context of carbohydrate absorption, what is the role of GLUT2?
In the context of carbohydrate absorption, what is the role of GLUT2?
What is the correct order of events in fat absorption after the formation of micelles?
What is the correct order of events in fat absorption after the formation of micelles?
The ileocecal valve's primary function is to:
The ileocecal valve's primary function is to:
What is the significance of a high HDL:LDL ratio for cardiovascular health?
What is the significance of a high HDL:LDL ratio for cardiovascular health?
Which of the following best describes the 'mass movements' in the large intestine?
Which of the following best describes the 'mass movements' in the large intestine?
During the defecation reflex, what role does the internal anal sphincter play?
During the defecation reflex, what role does the internal anal sphincter play?
Which of the following is a consequence of the age-related decrease in epithelial stem cell division rate in the GI tract?
Which of the following is a consequence of the age-related decrease in epithelial stem cell division rate in the GI tract?
How does the composition of feces reflect the processes in the large intestine?
How does the composition of feces reflect the processes in the large intestine?
In the context of intestinal gas formation, which statement is most accurate?
In the context of intestinal gas formation, which statement is most accurate?
Which alteration in gastrointestinal function is most directly related to decreased smooth muscle tone associated with aging?
Which alteration in gastrointestinal function is most directly related to decreased smooth muscle tone associated with aging?
A researcher discovers a novel genetic mutation that completely disables the SGLT1/2 symporter in intestinal cells. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of this mutation?
A researcher discovers a novel genetic mutation that completely disables the SGLT1/2 symporter in intestinal cells. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of this mutation?
Imagine a hypothetical scenario where an individual's lymphatic vessels are completely blocked throughout the body. Which of the following nutrients would be MOST affected in terms of absorption and initial transport?
Imagine a hypothetical scenario where an individual's lymphatic vessels are completely blocked throughout the body. Which of the following nutrients would be MOST affected in terms of absorption and initial transport?
In which region of the small intestine does the majority of nutrient absorption take place?
In which region of the small intestine does the majority of nutrient absorption take place?
What structural modification significantly increases the surface area for absorption in the small intestine?
What structural modification significantly increases the surface area for absorption in the small intestine?
By which transport mechanism does glucose enter the blood from intestinal cells?
By which transport mechanism does glucose enter the blood from intestinal cells?
What is the function of the Na+/K+ pump in the context of carbohydrate absorption in the small intestine?
What is the function of the Na+/K+ pump in the context of carbohydrate absorption in the small intestine?
What role do bile salts play in the digestion of fats?
What role do bile salts play in the digestion of fats?
How are chylomicrons transported from the intestinal cells into the body?
How are chylomicrons transported from the intestinal cells into the body?
From where do intestinal gases primarily originate?
From where do intestinal gases primarily originate?
Which of the following describes a key difference between the absorptive surface of the colon compared to the small intestine?
Which of the following describes a key difference between the absorptive surface of the colon compared to the small intestine?
What is the primary role of the large intestine in digestion and absorption?
What is the primary role of the large intestine in digestion and absorption?
What directly stimulates the defecation reflex?
What directly stimulates the defecation reflex?
Which of the following is the main function of the ileocecal valve?
Which of the following is the main function of the ileocecal valve?
What is the primary mechanism by which the colon absorbs sodium?
What is the primary mechanism by which the colon absorbs sodium?
What role does the liver play in the processing of absorbed nutrients?
What role does the liver play in the processing of absorbed nutrients?
Which of the following best describes the movement of water in the colon?
Which of the following best describes the movement of water in the colon?
What is the impact of decreased smooth muscle tone on gastrointestinal function in the elderly?
What is the impact of decreased smooth muscle tone on gastrointestinal function in the elderly?
Which of the following is a consequence of a high LDL level?
Which of the following is a consequence of a high LDL level?
What are 'mass movements' in the large intestine?
What are 'mass movements' in the large intestine?
What effect does aging have on the epithelial stem cell division rate in the GI tract?
What effect does aging have on the epithelial stem cell division rate in the GI tract?
What substances are synthesized by bacteria in the colon?
What substances are synthesized by bacteria in the colon?
Following lipase hydrolyzation of triglycerides, the resulting fatty acids and monoglycerides are transported to the intestinal cell via:
Following lipase hydrolyzation of triglycerides, the resulting fatty acids and monoglycerides are transported to the intestinal cell via:
What is the specific fate of excess chylomicrons (CMs) after they have delivered their lipid components to tissues?
What is the specific fate of excess chylomicrons (CMs) after they have delivered their lipid components to tissues?
The migrating motor complex is disrupted in a patient. Knowing this will alter the normal flow of contents in the small intestine, what is the MOST LIKELY impact on nutrient absorption?
The migrating motor complex is disrupted in a patient. Knowing this will alter the normal flow of contents in the small intestine, what is the MOST LIKELY impact on nutrient absorption?
How would a drug that selectively inhibits the activity of pancreatic lipase impact the absorption of dietary fats?
How would a drug that selectively inhibits the activity of pancreatic lipase impact the absorption of dietary fats?
An individual with a rare genetic defect has intestinal cells that lack the ability to synthesize or express apolipoproteins. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of this?
An individual with a rare genetic defect has intestinal cells that lack the ability to synthesize or express apolipoproteins. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of this?
In the small intestine, which of the following mechanisms primarily drives the absorption of monosaccharides?
In the small intestine, which of the following mechanisms primarily drives the absorption of monosaccharides?
Which specialized structural feature significantly enhances absorption within the small intestine?
Which specialized structural feature significantly enhances absorption within the small intestine?
How does the absorption of water in the colon primarily occur?
How does the absorption of water in the colon primarily occur?
Following their synthesis within intestinal cells, how are chylomicrons transported?
Following their synthesis within intestinal cells, how are chylomicrons transported?
What is the primary function of bile salts in the process of fat digestion?
What is the primary function of bile salts in the process of fat digestion?
What role does the migrating motor complex play in nutrient absorption?
What role does the migrating motor complex play in nutrient absorption?
The primary source of intestinal gases is:
The primary source of intestinal gases is:
What is the fate of excess chylomicrons after they have delivered lipids to tissues?
What is the fate of excess chylomicrons after they have delivered lipids to tissues?
The ileocecal valve primarily functions to:
The ileocecal valve primarily functions to:
In the colon, bacteria synthesize:
In the colon, bacteria synthesize:
How does a high HDL:LDL ratio typically impact cardiovascular health?
How does a high HDL:LDL ratio typically impact cardiovascular health?
A drug that selectively inhibits the activity of pancreatic lipase would MOST directly affect the:
A drug that selectively inhibits the activity of pancreatic lipase would MOST directly affect the:
How would a complete blockage of lymphatic vessels throughout the body MOST directly impact nutrient absorption?
How would a complete blockage of lymphatic vessels throughout the body MOST directly impact nutrient absorption?
What is the role of GLUT2 in carbohydrate absorption?
What is the role of GLUT2 in carbohydrate absorption?
What is the immediate consequence of a mutation that disables the SGLT1/2 symporter in intestinal cells?
What is the immediate consequence of a mutation that disables the SGLT1/2 symporter in intestinal cells?
In the small intestine, specialized transport mechanisms are in place for the absorption of:
In the small intestine, specialized transport mechanisms are in place for the absorption of:
Why does very little absorption take place in the ileum?
Why does very little absorption take place in the ileum?
In the context of carbohydrate absorption, what is the role of the Na+/K+ pump?
In the context of carbohydrate absorption, what is the role of the Na+/K+ pump?
Which of the following best describes the primary characteristic of nutrient absorption in the duodenum and jejunum?
Which of the following best describes the primary characteristic of nutrient absorption in the duodenum and jejunum?
What structural feature of the small intestine greatly enhances the absorptive surface area?
What structural feature of the small intestine greatly enhances the absorptive surface area?
Which transport mechanism is responsible for moving glucose against its concentration gradient into intestinal cells?
Which transport mechanism is responsible for moving glucose against its concentration gradient into intestinal cells?
What is the role of the Na+/K+ pump in the absorption of glucose in the small intestine?
What is the role of the Na+/K+ pump in the absorption of glucose in the small intestine?
Bile salts facilitate fat digestion by:
Bile salts facilitate fat digestion by:
How are chylomicrons transported from intestinal cells into the bloodstream?
How are chylomicrons transported from intestinal cells into the bloodstream?
What is the primary source of gases in the intestine?
What is the primary source of gases in the intestine?
How does the absorptive surface of the colon differ from that of the small intestine?
How does the absorptive surface of the colon differ from that of the small intestine?
The colon's primary role in digestion and absorption is to:
The colon's primary role in digestion and absorption is to:
What triggers the defecation reflex?
What triggers the defecation reflex?
What is the main function of the ileocecal valve?
What is the main function of the ileocecal valve?
The primary mechanism by which the colon absorbs sodium is:
The primary mechanism by which the colon absorbs sodium is:
What is the role of the liver in the processing of absorbed nutrients?
What is the role of the liver in the processing of absorbed nutrients?
How does water movement occur in the colon?
How does water movement occur in the colon?
Excess LDL (low-density lipoprotein) can lead to:
Excess LDL (low-density lipoprotein) can lead to:
What is the effect of aging on the epithelial stem cell division rate in the GI tract?
What is the effect of aging on the epithelial stem cell division rate in the GI tract?
Following the breakdown of triglycerides by lipase, how do the resulting fatty acids and monoglycerides enter intestinal cells?
Following the breakdown of triglycerides by lipase, how do the resulting fatty acids and monoglycerides enter intestinal cells?
After delivering lipid components to tissues, excess chylomicrons (CMs) are primarily:
After delivering lipid components to tissues, excess chylomicrons (CMs) are primarily:
In carbohydrate absorption, energy for the Na+/glucose cotransporter is directly derived from?
In carbohydrate absorption, energy for the Na+/glucose cotransporter is directly derived from?
What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of significant damage to the intestinal lacteals?
What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of significant damage to the intestinal lacteals?
A patient presents with symptoms suggesting impaired absorption of vitamin B12. Where is the defect most likely located?
A patient presents with symptoms suggesting impaired absorption of vitamin B12. Where is the defect most likely located?
Which of the following is the LEAST accurate statement concerning the large intestine?
Which of the following is the LEAST accurate statement concerning the large intestine?
Which of the following is NOT directly absorbed by the small intestine?
Which of the following is NOT directly absorbed by the small intestine?
What is the primary function of the hepatic portal system?
What is the primary function of the hepatic portal system?
How do the components of micelles cross the intestinal cell membrane?
How do the components of micelles cross the intestinal cell membrane?
What is the role of pancreatic lipase in fat digestion?
What is the role of pancreatic lipase in fat digestion?
Where are bile salts reabsorbed in the small intestine?
Where are bile salts reabsorbed in the small intestine?
Which of the following is the direct energy source for the Na+/glucose cotransporter (SGLT) in intestinal cells?
Which of the following is the direct energy source for the Na+/glucose cotransporter (SGLT) in intestinal cells?
What is the composition of intestinal gas primarily a result of?
What is the composition of intestinal gas primarily a result of?
How does the absorption of water occur in the colon?
How does the absorption of water occur in the colon?
The role of colonic bacteria does NOT include:
The role of colonic bacteria does NOT include:
What is the likely consequence of decreased smooth muscle tone in the GI tract due to aging?
What is the likely consequence of decreased smooth muscle tone in the GI tract due to aging?
Epithelial stem cell division rate decreases with aging. Which of the following is the MOST LIKELY outcome?
Epithelial stem cell division rate decreases with aging. Which of the following is the MOST LIKELY outcome?
Which of the following is the most direct cause of intestinal gas formation?
Which of the following is the most direct cause of intestinal gas formation?
Which response accurately describes the role of microvilli in the small intestine?
Which response accurately describes the role of microvilli in the small intestine?
Following a cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), which aspect of nutrient digestion would be MOST significantly affected?
Following a cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), which aspect of nutrient digestion would be MOST significantly affected?
Which statement best describes the function of lacteals in nutrient absorption?
Which statement best describes the function of lacteals in nutrient absorption?
How does a high HDL:LDL ratio influences cardiovascular health?
How does a high HDL:LDL ratio influences cardiovascular health?
In the small intestine, which mechanism primarily drives the absorption of fructose?
In the small intestine, which mechanism primarily drives the absorption of fructose?
What is the specific fate of excess chylomicrons (CMs) following lipid component delivery to tissues?
What is the specific fate of excess chylomicrons (CMs) following lipid component delivery to tissues?
How does the colon primarily absorb sodium ions (Na+)?
How does the colon primarily absorb sodium ions (Na+)?
The absorption of which nutrient relies heavily on specialized transport mechanisms within the ileum?
The absorption of which nutrient relies heavily on specialized transport mechanisms within the ileum?
Consider an individual with a mutation causing non-functional SGLT1 transporters. Knowing that the mutation is only expressed in the small intestine, which outcome is MOST likely?
Consider an individual with a mutation causing non-functional SGLT1 transporters. Knowing that the mutation is only expressed in the small intestine, which outcome is MOST likely?
An individual is administered a drug that non-competitively inhibits the Na+/K+ ATPase pump in intestinal cells. This drug will most directly interfere with the absorption of _______.
An individual is administered a drug that non-competitively inhibits the Na+/K+ ATPase pump in intestinal cells. This drug will most directly interfere with the absorption of _______.
A researcher is investigating a novel genetic mutation that results in a complete absence of GLUT2 transporter proteins in the basolateral membrane of intestinal epithelial cells. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence?
A researcher is investigating a novel genetic mutation that results in a complete absence of GLUT2 transporter proteins in the basolateral membrane of intestinal epithelial cells. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence?
A patient with a history of chronic pancreatitis experiences severe malabsorption, particularly of fats. If you were to analyze the contents of their small intestine, you would MOSTLY expect to see an increase in:
A patient with a history of chronic pancreatitis experiences severe malabsorption, particularly of fats. If you were to analyze the contents of their small intestine, you would MOSTLY expect to see an increase in:
Approximately what percentage of total nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine?
Approximately what percentage of total nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine?
Which of the following nutrients does NOT get absorbed from the contents in the small intestine?
Which of the following nutrients does NOT get absorbed from the contents in the small intestine?
In which sections of the small intestine does MOST nutrient absorption occur?
In which sections of the small intestine does MOST nutrient absorption occur?
What kind of specialized transport mechanisms exist in the ileum?
What kind of specialized transport mechanisms exist in the ileum?
Which structural modification in the small intestine serves to increase the surface area for absorption?
Which structural modification in the small intestine serves to increase the surface area for absorption?
Where do the capillary networks of the small intestine drain to for nutrient processing?
Where do the capillary networks of the small intestine drain to for nutrient processing?
What is the role of lacteals in the small intestine?
What is the role of lacteals in the small intestine?
Which process describes how absorption can occur in the small intestine?
Which process describes how absorption can occur in the small intestine?
What primarily drives passive diffusion in nutrient absorption?
What primarily drives passive diffusion in nutrient absorption?
What assists the transport of solutes across the membrane in facilitated diffusion?
What assists the transport of solutes across the membrane in facilitated diffusion?
What directly powers active transport?
What directly powers active transport?
Which symporter is used by glucose and galactose for carbohydrate absorption?
Which symporter is used by glucose and galactose for carbohydrate absorption?
During carbohydrate absorption, how are Na+ and glucose carried across the membrane?
During carbohydrate absorption, how are Na+ and glucose carried across the membrane?
How does glucose enter the blood from intestinal cells?
How does glucose enter the blood from intestinal cells?
In fat digestion, what role do bile salts play?
In fat digestion, what role do bile salts play?
In fat digestion, what enzyme hydrolyzes triglycerides (TGs) to fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides?
In fat digestion, what enzyme hydrolyzes triglycerides (TGs) to fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides?
What are the small droplets formed during fat digestion called?
What are the small droplets formed during fat digestion called?
What is the composition of micelles?
What is the composition of micelles?
How do components of micelles enter intestinal cells?
How do components of micelles enter intestinal cells?
What happens to monoglycerides and fatty acids in the intestinal cells?
What happens to monoglycerides and fatty acids in the intestinal cells?
After triglycerides are re-synthesized, what are they coated with?
After triglycerides are re-synthesized, what are they coated with?
Where do chylomicrons enter after being formed in intestinal cells?
Where do chylomicrons enter after being formed in intestinal cells?
Following absorption, how are chylomicrons primarily transported?
Following absorption, how are chylomicrons primarily transported?
Which of the following is LEAST likely to be a destination for lipid components when delivered by chylomicrons?
Which of the following is LEAST likely to be a destination for lipid components when delivered by chylomicrons?
Where are excess chylomicrons primarily processed after delivering lipids?
Where are excess chylomicrons primarily processed after delivering lipids?
Where does the majority of nutrient absorption occur?
Where does the majority of nutrient absorption occur?
What substances are absorbed by the small intestine?
What substances are absorbed by the small intestine?
In which parts of the small intestine does most absorption take place?
In which parts of the small intestine does most absorption take place?
Which adaptation of the small intestine increases the surface area for absorption?
Which adaptation of the small intestine increases the surface area for absorption?
Where does the capillary network of the small intestine drain?
Where does the capillary network of the small intestine drain?
What are lacteals and what is their role in the small intestine?
What are lacteals and what is their role in the small intestine?
By what process can absorption occur in the small intestine?
By what process can absorption occur in the small intestine?
What is 'passive diffusion' in the context of nutrient absorption?
What is 'passive diffusion' in the context of nutrient absorption?
Which of the following assists the transport of solutes across the membrane in facilitated diffusion?
Which of the following assists the transport of solutes across the membrane in facilitated diffusion?
What is the energy source that directly powers active transport?
What is the energy source that directly powers active transport?
Which symporter do glucose and galactose use for absorption in the small intestine?
Which symporter do glucose and galactose use for absorption in the small intestine?
In carbohydrate absorption, how are Na+ and glucose transported across the membrane simultaneously?
In carbohydrate absorption, how are Na+ and glucose transported across the membrane simultaneously?
What is the function of bile salts in fat digestion?
What is the function of bile salts in fat digestion?
What enzyme hydrolyzes triglycerides (TGs) to fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides in fat digestion?
What enzyme hydrolyzes triglycerides (TGs) to fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides in fat digestion?
What are micelles composed of?
What are micelles composed of?
What are triglycerides coated with after being re-synthesized in intestinal cells?
What are triglycerides coated with after being re-synthesized in intestinal cells?
How are chylomicrons primarily transported after absorption?
How are chylomicrons primarily transported after absorption?
What is the fate of excess chylomicrons in the body?
What is the fate of excess chylomicrons in the body?
VLDL and LDL have different roles when delivering fats. Which of the following answer options describes their functions?
VLDL and LDL have different roles when delivering fats. Which of the following answer options describes their functions?
What does a high HDL:LDL ratio typically indicate?
What does a high HDL:LDL ratio typically indicate?
Imagine a scenario where a patient's lipase enzymes are functioning, but their intestinal cells are unable to properly re-synthesize triglycerides following absorption of fatty acids and monoglycerides. Which of the following is the MOST LIKELY consequence?
Imagine a scenario where a patient's lipase enzymes are functioning, but their intestinal cells are unable to properly re-synthesize triglycerides following absorption of fatty acids and monoglycerides. Which of the following is the MOST LIKELY consequence?
Which monosaccharides utilize the SGLT symporter for absorption in the small intestine?
Which monosaccharides utilize the SGLT symporter for absorption in the small intestine?
What provides the energy for the Na+/K+ pump involved in carbohydrate absorption?
What provides the energy for the Na+/K+ pump involved in carbohydrate absorption?
How does glucose enter the bloodstream from intestinal cells?
How does glucose enter the bloodstream from intestinal cells?
What is the function of bile salts in the digestion of fats?
What is the function of bile salts in the digestion of fats?
Which enzyme is responsible for hydrolyzing triglycerides into fatty acids and monoglycerides?
Which enzyme is responsible for hydrolyzing triglycerides into fatty acids and monoglycerides?
What is the ultimate fate of excess chylomicrons in the body?
What is the ultimate fate of excess chylomicrons in the body?
Which statement accurately differentiates the primary roles of VLDL and LDL in fat delivery?
Which statement accurately differentiates the primary roles of VLDL and LDL in fat delivery?
If intestinal cells are unable to properly re-synthesize triglycerides following absorption of fatty acids and monoglycerides, what is the MOST LIKELY consequence?
If intestinal cells are unable to properly re-synthesize triglycerides following absorption of fatty acids and monoglycerides, what is the MOST LIKELY consequence?
Where does the majority of nutrient absorption take place?
Where does the majority of nutrient absorption take place?
Which structural adaptation increases the surface area for absorption in the small intestine?
Which structural adaptation increases the surface area for absorption in the small intestine?
The capillary network of the small intestine drains into which system for nutrient processing?
The capillary network of the small intestine drains into which system for nutrient processing?
Where do intestinal gases primarily originate?
Where do intestinal gases primarily originate?
What is the primary function of the caecum at the junction of the small and large intestine?
What is the primary function of the caecum at the junction of the small and large intestine?
Which vitamins are synthesized by bacteria in the colon and subsequently absorbed?
Which vitamins are synthesized by bacteria in the colon and subsequently absorbed?
How does the luminal surface of the colon differ from that of the small intestine?
How does the luminal surface of the colon differ from that of the small intestine?
What is the role of the internal anal sphincter in the defecation reflex?
What is the role of the internal anal sphincter in the defecation reflex?
How does the rate of epithelial stem cell division in the GI tract change with age?
How does the rate of epithelial stem cell division in the GI tract change with age?
Which of the following best describes how the small intestine is adapted for absorption?
Which of the following best describes how the small intestine is adapted for absorption?
What is the role of the hepatic portal system in nutrient absorption?
What is the role of the hepatic portal system in nutrient absorption?
Which transport mechanism relies on a difference in concentration across the membrane?
Which transport mechanism relies on a difference in concentration across the membrane?
During carbohydrate absorption, which of the following is true regarding the Na+/K+ pump?
During carbohydrate absorption, which of the following is true regarding the Na+/K+ pump?
In carbohydrate absorption, what supplies the energy for the SGLT symporter to transport glucose?
In carbohydrate absorption, what supplies the energy for the SGLT symporter to transport glucose?
What is the primary role of bile salts in fat digestion?
What is the primary role of bile salts in fat digestion?
What enzyme is responsible for hydrolyzing triglycerides (TGs) into fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides?
What enzyme is responsible for hydrolyzing triglycerides (TGs) into fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides?
How components of micelles enter the intestinal cells?
How components of micelles enter the intestinal cells?
Monoglycerides and fatty acids are re-synthesized into what molecules inside intestinal cells?
Monoglycerides and fatty acids are re-synthesized into what molecules inside intestinal cells?
After triglycerides are re-synthesized, what are they coated with to form chylomicrons?
After triglycerides are re-synthesized, what are they coated with to form chylomicrons?
Where are excess chylomicrons primarily processed after delivering lipids to tissues?
Where are excess chylomicrons primarily processed after delivering lipids to tissues?
VLDL and LDL have different roles when delivering fats. Which of the following accurately describes their functions?
VLDL and LDL have different roles when delivering fats. Which of the following accurately describes their functions?
What is the MOST LIKELY consequence if a patient's intestinal cells are unable to properly re-synthesize triglycerides following absorption of fatty acids and monoglycerides?
What is the MOST LIKELY consequence if a patient's intestinal cells are unable to properly re-synthesize triglycerides following absorption of fatty acids and monoglycerides?
In what part of the gastrointestinal tract is intestinal gas production minimal?
In what part of the gastrointestinal tract is intestinal gas production minimal?
Which of the following is the primary function of the caecum at the junction of the small and large intestine?
Which of the following is the primary function of the caecum at the junction of the small and large intestine?
Age-related effects in the GI tract can affect digestion. What happens to epithelial stem cell division rate with age?
Age-related effects in the GI tract can affect digestion. What happens to epithelial stem cell division rate with age?
Which of of the following MOST accurately describes the composition of feces?
Which of of the following MOST accurately describes the composition of feces?
A researcher is conducting an experiment on intestinal cells and discovers a complete absence of GLUT2 transporter proteins in the basolateral membrane of intestinal epithelial cells, but SGLT1 expression has not been affected. Assuming the GLUT2 deficit is the only abnormality, which of the following outcomes is MOST likely?
A researcher is conducting an experiment on intestinal cells and discovers a complete absence of GLUT2 transporter proteins in the basolateral membrane of intestinal epithelial cells, but SGLT1 expression has not been affected. Assuming the GLUT2 deficit is the only abnormality, which of the following outcomes is MOST likely?
Which of the following best describes how monosaccharides move across the intestinal cell membrane during absorption?
Which of the following best describes how monosaccharides move across the intestinal cell membrane during absorption?
What is the primary role of pancreatic lipase in the process of fat digestion?
What is the primary role of pancreatic lipase in the process of fat digestion?
What is the primary role of bile salts in the digestive process?
What is the primary role of bile salts in the digestive process?
A researcher develops a drug that completely blocks the SGLT1/2 symporter in the small intestine. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of administering this drug?
A researcher develops a drug that completely blocks the SGLT1/2 symporter in the small intestine. What is the MOST LIKELY consequence of administering this drug?
A patient presents with lymphedema, resulting in impaired lymphatic drainage throughout their body. Which of the following processes will be MOST directly affected?
A patient presents with lymphedema, resulting in impaired lymphatic drainage throughout their body. Which of the following processes will be MOST directly affected?
Flashcards
What does the small intestine absorb?
What does the small intestine absorb?
The small intestine absorbs monosaccharides, amino acids, fatty acids, monoglycerides, electrolytes, vitamins, and water.
Where does most absorption occur?
Where does most absorption occur?
Most absorption occurs in the duodenum and jejunum. Very little absorption occurs in the ileum.
Small intestine adaptations
Small intestine adaptations
The small intestine is specially adapted for absorption with microvilli for increased surface area.
What do microvilli contain?
What do microvilli contain?
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Hepatic portal system function
Hepatic portal system function
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Lacteals function
Lacteals function
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Types of Absorption
Types of Absorption
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Passive diffusion
Passive diffusion
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Facilitated diffusion
Facilitated diffusion
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Active transport
Active transport
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Glucose/galactose absorption
Glucose/galactose absorption
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Na+/K+ pump
Na+/K+ pump
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SGLT protein function
SGLT protein function
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How does glucose enter the blood?
How does glucose enter the blood?
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Bile salts act as?
Bile salts act as?
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Pancreatic lipase
Pancreatic lipase
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What are Micelles
What are Micelles
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Micelle components entry
Micelle components entry
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FAs & monoglycerides converted to?
FAs & monoglycerides converted to?
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Lipoproteins
Lipoproteins
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Chylomicrons properties
Chylomicrons properties
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CMs travel where?
CMs travel where?
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CMs deliver lipids to?
CMs deliver lipids to?
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Excess CM processed by?
Excess CM processed by?
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VLDL vs LDL
VLDL vs LDL
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Study Notes
Absorption of Nutrients in the GI Tract
- Nutrients are absorbed across the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Learning Objectives
- Summarize how nutrients are absorbed across the GI tract.
- Describe the role of the large intestine in absorption and defaecation.
Small Intestine Absorption
- Approximately 90% of absorption happens in the small intestine.
- The small intestine absorbs monosaccharides, amino acids, fatty acids and monoglycerides, electrolytes, vitamins, and water.
- Calcium and iron absorption is adjusted based on bodily needs.
- Absorption of the rest of the nutrients consumed is complete, with more absorption occurring as food intake increases.
- Most absorption takes place in the duodenum and jejunum.
- Very little absorption occurs in the ileum.
- Vitamin B12 and bile salts in the ileum have specialized transport mechanism.
Small Intestine Adaptations
- The small intestine is specifically adapted for absorption.
- Microvilli increases the surface area for absorption.
- There are 3000-6000 microvilli per epithelial cell approx.
- Enzymes such as peptidases and lactase are contained in microvilli.
- Transport proteins facilitate nutrient absorption into the intestinal capillary network.
- Capillary network drains into the hepatic portal system, directing blood to the liver for nutrient processing.
- Lacteals, which are modified lymphatic vessels are used for fat absorption.
Absorption Processes
- Absorption can occur through active or passive processes, or a combination of both.
Passive Diffusion
- Passive diffusion occurs due to differences in concentration across a membrane.
Facilitated Diffusion
- Specialized proteins 'facilitate' transport across the membrane; used when solutes cannot cross unaided.
Active Transport
- Energy is used to power transport against the concentration gradient.
Carbohydrate Absorption
- Glucose and galactose use the SGLT symporter.
- The Na+/K+ pump uses ATP to pump Na+ out of the cell into the interstitium against its concentration gradient.
- This process reduces cytoplasmic Na+ levels.
- Na+ and glucose are carried across the membrane simultaneously (symport) via the SGLT transport protein, using the 'energy' from the Na+ concentration gradient.
- No ATP is used in this step.
- Glucose enters the blood passively through facilitated diffusion using GLUT2 once concentrated in the cell.
Fat Digestion
- Bile salts act as detergents, converting large fat globules into a lipid emulsion.
- Pancreatic lipase hydrolyses triglycerides (TGs) into fatty acids (FAs) and monoglycerides.
- The small droplets become micelles.
- Micelles contain digested triglycerides (FAs, monoglycerides), cholesterol, and fat-soluble vitamins.
Fat Absorption
- Lipid-soluble components of micelles diffuse through the plasma membrane of cells.
- Once inside, they are re-synthesized into triglycerides.
- Triglycerides coalesce into droplets and are coated with lipoprotein forming chylomicrons (CMs).
- CMs are water-soluble with a hydrophobic core and enter the lymphatics (not capillaries).
- Chylomicrons travel via the lymphatic system and are returned to the venous system near the heart via the thoracic duct.
- CMs deliver lipid components to adipose, cardiac, and skeletal muscle for use and storage.
- Excess CMs are taken up by the liver and packaged into VLDL & LDL.
Overview of VLDL and LDL
- VLDL delivers triglycerides to skeletal muscle (SKM) and adipose tissue.
- LDL delivers cholesterol to peripheral tissues for steroid hormone synthesis.
Effects of Cholesterol
- High LDL lead to developing LDL plaques in blood vessels and atherosclerosis.
- HDL picks up excess cholesterol in the blood and transports it to the liver for removal in bile.
- A high HDL:LDL ratio reduces the risk of a heart attack.
Intestinal Gases
- Intestinal gases result from bacterial fermentation in the colon and swallowed air.
Eruction
- Eruction, or burping,is useful for removing air from the stomach.
- Very little gas is present in the small intestine; it either passes to the colon or is absorbed.
Flatus
- Flatus is mainly derived from colonic bacteria.
- Gas production depends on the type of food eaten.
- Flatus has characteristics of colonic bacteria.
Small and Large Intestine Connection
- The small intestine joins the colon at the caecum.
- The caecum is a blind-ended pouch below the junction of the small and large intestines, at the ileocecal valve.
- The ileocaecal valve opens when contents from the small intestine push forward.
- The valve is forcibly closed by any backward movement.
Large Intestine Function
- The large intestine receives 500ml of chyme per day.
- The chyme consists of indigestible food residue, bile components, and water.
- The colon extracts more water and electrolytes.
- Bacterial flora ferment cellulose and undigested carbohydrates, producing gas.
- Bacteria synthesize B vitamins and vitamin K, which are absorbed in the colon.
- Remaining content is eliminated as faeces.
- The luminal surface is smoother with less absorptive surface area than the small intestine.
- Na+ is actively absorbed.
- Chloride and water follow down electrochemical and osmotic gradients, respectively.
- Mass movements occur 3-4 times per day, propelling faeces forward.
- Ascending and transverse colons contract simultaneously, driving faeces one third to three quarters of the length of the colon in a few seconds.
- Reflexes are initiated to move existing contents further along the tract when a new meal enters the digestive tract.
- Gastrin triggers the gastro-colic reflex.
Defaecation
- Distension of the rectum stimulates stretch receptors in the rectal wall, triggering the defaecation reflex.
- This causes the internal anal sphincter to relax and the colon to contract more vigorously.
- Defaecation occurs if the external anal sphincter is relaxed (a voluntary action).
- Defaecation is assisted by simultaneous voluntary contraction of the abdominal muscles.
- Faeces consist of approximately 67% water and 33% solids, with bacteria comprising about 11%.
Age Related Changes
- Epithelial stem cell division rate decreases with age.
- Epithelium becomes more susceptible to damage from abrasion, acid, and enzymes.
- Peptic ulcers become more likely as tissue repair is less efficient.
- The epithelium in the mouth, oesophagus, and anus becomes thinner and more fragile.
- General motility and contractions weaken, and straining becomes more common.
- Straining stresses less resilient blood vessels.
- Sphincters weaken.
- There may be a gradual loss of teeth due to dental caries or gingivitis, toxins such as alcohol can lead to liver cirrhosis and cancer.
- Cancer is common due to high cell division and mutation levels.
- Decreased GI motility and contraction strength also occur.
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