Digestive

Alimentary Canal

A continuous tube that processes food, starting from the mouth and ending at the anus.

Lumen

The interior space of the alimentary canal where food passes.

Propulsion

The movement of food through the digestive tract, primarily by peristalsis.

Peristalsis

Wave-like muscle contractions that move food along the digestive tract.

Segmentation

Rhythmic contractions that mix food and enhance nutrient absorption.

Mastication

The mechanical process of chewing food into smaller pieces.

Chemical Digestion

The breakdown of food into absorbable units through enzymes.

Salivary Amylase

An enzyme in saliva that begins the digestion of carbohydrates.

Pancreatic Amylase

An enzyme produced by the pancreas that continues the breakdown of carbohydrates in the small intestine.

Lipases

Enzymes that digest fats.

Pepsin

An enzyme that breaks down proteins in the stomach.

Trypsin

A pancreatic enzyme that continues protein digestion in the small intestine.

Lactase

An enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk.

Maltase

An enzyme that converts maltose into glucose.

Sucrase

An enzyme that breaks down sucrose into glucose and fructose.

Dipeptidases

Enzymes that break down dipeptides into amino acids.

Mucosa

The innermost layer of the alimentary canal involved in secretion and absorption.

Submucosa

A layer containing blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue.

Muscularis Externa

A layer responsible for peristalsis and mixing food.

Serosa

The outermost protective layer of the alimentary canal.

Villi

Small, finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for absorption.

Microvilli

Even smaller projections on villi that further increase the surface area for absorption.

Bile Salts

Compounds that assist in the emulsification of fats.

Chylomicron

A lipoprotein particle that transports dietary lipids through the lymphatic system.

Entroendocrine Cells

Cells that secrete hormones and other substances to regulate digestion.