The small intestine possesses permanent folds along its length known as
A. plicae circulares
B. haustra
C. villi
D. intestinal crypts
A. plicae circulares
- Correct: The small intestine possesses permanent folds along its length known as plicae circulares, also called circular folds or valvulae conniventes. These folds are permanent transverse ridges of the mucosa and submucosa that project into the lumen of the small intestine. They increase the surface area for absorption and digestion by slowing the passage of chyme and increasing contact between chyme and the intestinal lining, facilitating nutrient absorption.
B. haustra
- Incorrect: Haustra are pouches or sacculations formed by the muscularis externa of the colon (large intestine), not the folds of the small intestine.
C. villi
- Incorrect: Villi are finger-like projections of the mucosa of the small intestine that extend into the lumen. While villi increase the surface area for absorption, they are not permanent folds along the length of the small intestine.
D. intestinal crypts
- Incorrect: Intestinal crypts, also known as crypts of Lieberkühn, are invaginations of the epithelium located between villi in the mucosa of the small intestine. They contain stem cells that continuously divide and give rise to new epithelial cells, helping to replenish the epithelial lining of the intestine. Crypts are not permanent folds along the length of the small intestine.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is A.