Question

52. Cells that line your intestines are known to posses a large number of membrane proteins that transport small molecules and ions across the plasma membrane. Which of the following cell structures would you expect to be required for this function of the cells?

A. The endoplasmic Reticulum
B. Peroxisomes
C. Lysosomes
D. The cell wall

Answer 1

The plasma membrane and its microvilli are required for the transport function of cells lining the intestines.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cell structure that would be required for the transport function of the cells lining the intestines is the plasma membrane. The plasma membrane of these cells is folded into fingerlike projections called microvilli, which increase the surface area available for absorption.

The small molecules and ions are transported across the plasma membrane through specific membrane proteins. These proteins can be found on the surface of the intestinal cells and act as transporters. They facilitate the movement of nutrients from the cavity of the intestines into the cells and eventually into the bloodstream.

The other cell structures listed as options, such as the endoplasmic reticulum, peroxisomes, and lysosomes, are not directly involved in the transport of small molecules and ions across the plasma membrane in this context.