Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about protein absorption and transport is FALSE?
A
After absorption, amino acids enter the portal circulation and are transported to the liver.
B
Amino acids are absorbed primarily in the small intestine via active transport mechanisms.
C
Dipeptides and tripeptides can be absorbed by enterocytes and are further hydrolyzed inside the cell.
D
Intact dietary proteins are commonly absorbed into the bloodstream without prior digestion.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the process of protein digestion and absorption. Proteins are broken down into smaller units (amino acids, dipeptides, and tripeptides) during digestion. This occurs primarily in the stomach and small intestine through the action of enzymes like pepsin and pancreatic proteases.
Step 2: Learn how amino acids, dipeptides, and tripeptides are absorbed. Amino acids are absorbed in the small intestine via active transport mechanisms, which require energy. Dipeptides and tripeptides can also be absorbed by enterocytes (intestinal cells) and are hydrolyzed into amino acids within the cell.
Step 3: Explore the transport of absorbed amino acids. After absorption, amino acids enter the portal circulation (blood vessels leading to the liver) and are transported to the liver for further metabolism or distribution to other tissues.
Step 4: Evaluate the statement about intact dietary proteins. Intact dietary proteins are not commonly absorbed into the bloodstream without prior digestion. Proteins must be broken down into smaller units before absorption, as the body cannot directly utilize intact proteins.
Step 5: Identify the false statement. Based on the understanding of protein digestion and absorption, the false statement is: 'Intact dietary proteins are commonly absorbed into the bloodstream without prior digestion.' This contradicts the established process of protein digestion and absorption.