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 contain large numbers of lysosomes.
B)They have more smooth endoplasmic reticulum than rough endoplasmic reticulum.
C)They contain large quantities of rough endoplasmic reticulum.
D)They have larger nuclei than cells that secrete large quantities of lipids.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Epithelial cells in the duodenum secrete large quantities of digestive enzymes, which are proteins. Therefore, they would contain large quantities of rough endoplasmic reticulum, which is responsible for protein synthesis and modification. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid metabolism, so it would not be as abundant in these cells. Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes responsible for breaking down cellular waste and foreign substances, but they are not directly involved in protein synthesis or secretion. The size of the nucleus would not necessarily be related to the type or amount of secretions produced by a cell.

The Small Intestine Is the Site of Digestion and Absorption