lacteal

(noun)

A lymphatic capillary that absorbs dietary fats in the villi of the small intestine.

Related Terms

Examples of lacteal in the following topics:

  • Absorption in the Small Intestine

    • Each villus has a network of capillaries and fine lymphatic vessels called lacteals close to its surface.
    • The epithelial cells of the villi transport nutrients from the lumen of the intestine into these capillaries (amino acids and carbohydrates) and lacteals (lipids).

  • Anatomy of the Digestive System

    • Ileum: Has villi, where all soluble molecules are absorbed into the blood (capillaries and lacteals).

  • Anatomy of the Small Intestine

    • Lacteals are the small lymph vessels that are present in villi.

  • Functions of the Lymphatic System

    • Lymph drainage vessels that line the intestine, called lacteals, absorb the chylomicrons into lymph fluid.