What is the primary function of the gastric folds, also known as rugae? What is the primary function of the gastric folds, also known as rugae? View Available Hint(s)
Hint 1. Function of Rugaeopened hint
Rugae are much less conspicuous after consumption of a meal. What might this fact indicate about their function?   What is the primary function of the gastric folds, also known as rugae?
to allow the lumen of the stomach to expand
to produce friction and slow the release of chyme from the stomach
to produce hydrochloric acid and pepsin
to increase the surface area available for absorption
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
Correct Answer:
To allow the lumen of the stomach to expand.
Explanation:
Gastric folds, also known as rugae, are internal ridges found in the lining of the stomach. Their primary function is to allow the stomach to expand when food enters and then return to its resting size when the stomach is empty. This feature is crucial because the stomach frequently changes in volume depending on food intake.
When the stomach is empty, the rugae appear as prominent folds. However, after a meal, these folds flatten out as the stomach expands to accommodate the ingested food. This ability to stretch is essential for storing large quantities of food temporarily before digestion begins. Without rugae, the stomach’s ability to expand would be severely limited, and food consumption would need to be in much smaller quantities.
Additionally, rugae contribute indirectly to the digestive process. While they do not directly aid in digestion or absorption, their presence ensures that the stomach can mix and churn food efficiently with gastric juices. This mechanical digestion process breaks down food into a semi-liquid mixture called chyme, which is then gradually released into the small intestine.
It is important to note that rugae are not responsible for increasing surface area for absorption—this is the function of structures in the small intestine, such as villi and microvilli. Similarly, they do not produce hydrochloric acid or pepsin, which are secreted by specialized cells in the stomach lining.
Thus, the primary role of gastric rugae is to allow the stomach to expand and contract efficiently, ensuring the proper processing of food before it enters the small intestine.
Now, I will generate an image of the stomach displaying the rugae.
Here is a detailed anatomical illustration of the human stomach, highlighting the gastric folds (rugae) and their role in allowing expansion. Let me know if you need any modifications or further explanations!
