Villi

Definition

Villi are small, finger-like projections that extend into the lumen of the small intestine, increasing its surface area for nutrient absorption. They contain blood vessels and lymphatic vessels to transport absorbed nutrients.

Related terms

Microvilli: Tiny hair-like structures on the epithelial cells of the villi that further increase the surface area for absorption.

Lacteal: A lymphatic vessel in each villus that absorbs dietary fats and transports them to the circulatory system.

Absorption: The process by which nutrients from digested food are taken up into the bloodstream from the intestine