Anatomy Final Review - Digesti

What are the functions of bile in digestion?

Emulsifies fats, aids in absorption of fat

Explain the role of villi and microvilli in nutrient absorption

increase surface area for nutrient absorption

How does the pancreas contribute to digestion?

Produces digestive enzymes, secretes bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid

What is peristalsis, and why is it important in the digestive process?

Rhythmic smooth muscle contractions that move food through digestive tract

Describe the functions of the liver in digestion and metabolism

Produces bile, stores and releases glucose, detoxifies harmful substances

What is the role of hydrochloric acid in the stomach?

Activates pepsin for protein digestion, kills harmful bacteria

Explain the function of the small intestine in digestion and absorption

Site of most chemical digestion and nutrient absorption

How does saliva contribute to the digestive process?

Contains amylase to begin carbohydrate digestion, moistens food for easier swallowing

What is the role of the large intestine in digestion?

Absorbs water and electrolytes, forms and stores feces

Describe the process of protein digestion from the mouth to the small intestine

Mouth: mechanical breakdown by teeth, stomach: pepsin begins chemical digestion, small intestine: further breakdown by pancreatic enzymes and absorption

What is the function of the gallbladder?

Stores and concentrates bile

Explain the role of enzymes in chemical digestion

Break down large molecules into smaller, absorbable units

How does the stomach protect itself from its own acid?

Mucus layer, rapid cell turnover, bicarbonate secretion

What is the purpose of the appendix?

May play a role in immune function, houses beneficial bacteria

Describe the process of carbohydrate digestion and absorption

Begins in mouth with salivary amylase, continues in small intestine with pancreatic amylase, is absorbed as simple sugars

What is the role of the pancreatic duct?

Delivers pancreatic juice to small intestine

Explain how GERD affects the digestive system.

Stomach acid flows back into esophagus, can cause inflammation and damage to esophageal lining

What is the function of the pyloric sphincter?

Controls release of stomach contents into small intestine

How does the enteric nervous system regulate digestion?

Controls digestive processes independently of central nervous system,regulates motility and secretion

Describe the absorption of lipids in the small intestine

Emulsified by bile, broken down by lipase, absorbed as fatty acids and glycerol