Lipid Absorption in Small Intestine Villi

Steps:

• Digestion breaks lipids into micelles for absorption across enterocyte membranes.
• Inside enterocytes, lipids reform into chylomicrons.
• Chylomicrons exit enterocytes via exocytosis into the interstitial space.
• Chylomicrons enter lacteals for lymphatic transport to bloodstream.

Why A is correct:

• Lacteals are lymphatic capillaries in villi that absorb and transport chylomicrons, as lipids are insoluble in blood and require lymphatics per digestive physiology.

Why the others are wrong:

• B: Blood capillaries absorb water-soluble nutrients like amino acids and sugars, not lipids.
• C: Goblet cells secrete mucus for protection, not absorption.
• D: Central lacteal is the target, but if D is muscularis, it aids motility, not lipid transport.

Final answer: A