Microvillus facts for kids
Microvilli are super tiny, finger-like parts found on the surface of many cells in your body. Imagine them like tiny, soft bristles on a brush! They are so small you can only see them with a powerful Electron microscope. Their main job is to make the cell's surface much bigger. This extra space helps cells do important tasks like absorbing nutrients or sending signals.
What Are Microvilli?
Microvilli are like tiny, hair-like extensions that stick out from the surface of certain cells. They are not actual hairs, but rather folds of the cell's outer layer, called the membrane. These amazing structures greatly increase the cell's surface area. For example, in your intestines, microvilli can make a cell's surface up to 600 times larger!
This huge increase in surface area is super important for how your body works. It helps cells to absorb (take in) things more efficiently. It also helps them to secrete (release) substances. You can find microvilli in many different parts of your body, including your ears, tongue, nose, and especially your intestines.
Microvilli in Your Tongue
On your tongue, microvilli are found on your taste buds. These tiny hairs play a big role in how you taste food. When you eat or drink something, the chemicals from the food touch these microvilli.
The microvilli then send special signals to your brain. Your brain quickly interprets these signals, telling you if something is sweet, sour, salty, bitter, or savory (umami). Over time, your brain builds up a "databank" of tastes. This helps you compare new tastes to ones you've had before, helping you to understand and enjoy different flavors.
Microvilli in Your Intestines
One of the most important places for microvilli is in your intestines. After you eat, your food is digested into tiny pieces. These tiny pieces contain nutrients that your body needs to grow and stay healthy.
The microvilli in your intestines are perfectly designed to absorb these nutrients. Because they create such a large surface area, your body can take in a lot more vitamins, minerals, and energy from your food. Without microvilli, your body wouldn't be able to get all the goodness it needs from the food you eat!
See also
In Spanish: Microvilli para niños
