What are villi? What is their location and function?

Definition

The tiny projections on the inner surface of the small intestine which help in absorbing the digested food are called villi. These helps to increase the surface area of intestinal walls.

Location

These are located in the inner walls of the small intestine.

Functions

• Their function is to increase the surface area of the small intestinal wall for absorption of the digested food.
• These projections absorb the protein molecules and help in the transfer of the proteins to all cells and tissues.
• Many blood vessels are present within these villi, that help in the absorption of digested food and carry it to the bloodstream. Later, from the bloodstream, the absorbed food is delivered to each and every cell of the body.