Tissue types and function · USMLE Step 1

Which tissue type would you expect to find lining the lumen of the small intestine where absorption occurs?

  1. Dense irregular connective tissue with collagen
  2. Simple columnar epithelium with microvilli
  3. Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium
  4. Cardiac (heart) muscle tissue
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Correct answer: Simple columnar epithelium with microvilli

The small intestine lumen is lined by simple columnar epithelium with apical microvilli to increase surface area for absorption — a classic example of epithelial tissue adapted for absorption.

Difficulty: Medium Question 10 of 22

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