The spelling of "villi intestinales" can be tricky for English speakers due to its Latin origins. However, using IPA phonetic transcription can make it easier to understand. The word is pronounced /ˈvɪli ɪnˌtɛstəˈnales/, with the stressed syllables on "villi" and "intestinales." The "v" is pronounced like a "w" in some languages, so it may sound like "willi" when spoken. The term refers to the small finger-like projections found in the lining of the small intestine that increase its surface area for nutrient absorption.
Villi intestinales, also known as intestinal villi, refer to the tiny, finger-like projections found in the lining of the small intestine. These microscopic structures play a crucial role in the absorption of nutrients from the digested food. They increase the overall surface area available for absorption, allowing for more efficient nutrient uptake.
The villi intestinales are composed of specialized cells, including enterocytes, which line the surface of the villi. These enterocytes have microvilli on their surface, further increasing the surface area for absorption. The microvilli form a brush border, giving the cells a fuzzy appearance under a microscope.
Through their unique structure, the villi intestinales facilitate the absorption of nutrients such as sugars, amino acids, and fatty acids. They absorb these nutrients into the bloodstream or lymphatic system, allowing them to reach various tissues and organs in the body.
In addition to absorption, the villi intestinales also play a role in the secretion of digestive enzymes and mucus, contributing to the overall digestive process.
Any damage or inflammation to the villi intestinales can impair nutrient absorption, resulting in malabsorption disorders such as celiac disease. In these cases, the villi may become flattened, reducing the surface area available for nutrient absorption.
In conclusion, the villi intestinales are finger-like projections found in the lining of the small intestine that increase the surface area for nutrient absorption. They are essential for efficient absorption of nutrients from digested food.
Intestinal v., numerous minute filiform projections from the mucous membrane of the small intestine which give to its surface a velvety appearance; they contain blood-vessels and lacteals.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "villi intestinales" is derived from Latin. "Villi" comes from the Latin word "villus", which means "shaggy hair" or "tuft of hair". "Intestinales" is the plural form of the Latin word "intestinalis", meaning "of the intestines" or "pertaining to the intestines". Therefore, "villi intestinales" can be translated as "intestinal villi", referring to the small, finger-like projections that line the walls of the small intestine.