Final answer:
The statement is true; both the ascending and descending regions of the colon are retroperitoneally located.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the ascending and descending regions of the colon are retroperitoneal is true. In the human digestive system, specific parts of the colon are indeed retroperitoneal, which means they are located behind the peritoneum, a membrane that lines the abdominal cavity. The ascending colon travels up the right side of the abdomen and transitions into the transverse colon at the right colic (hepatic) flexure. After crossing the abdomen, the transverse colon turns into the descending colon at the left colic (splenic) flexure. The descending colon runs down the left side of the abdomen. Both the ascending and descending colon, along with the rectum, are situated in the retroperitoneum, thus confirming that the statement is correct.