What are the Cellular Mechanisms of Nutrient Absorption?
Nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, where the mucosa is highly specialized. The surface area is greatly increased by villi and microvilli. Enterocytes, the absorptive cells, contain enzymes on their brush border that finalize digestion. Transporters and channels on the enterocyte membranes facilitate the uptake of amino acids, monosaccharides, and lipids into the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
