Question 1

Which process in the digestive system involves the addition of water to split large molecules into smaller ones, and what is the chemical term for this reaction?

Accepted Answer

Hydrolysis; $$\mathrm{AB} + H$$_{2}$$O \rightarrow \mathrm{AOH} + \mathrm{BH}$$

Question 2

Which layer of the gastrointestinal wall contains blood vessels, nerves, and glands that release digestive enzymes?

Accepted Answer

Submucosal Layer

Question 3

A patient is unable to digest lactose. Which enzyme is most likely deficient, and what are the products of its action?

Accepted Answer

Lactase; glucose + galactose

Question 4

Which hormone slows gastric emptying and stimulates the secretion of pancreatic enzymes?

Accepted Answer

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

Question 5

What is the primary function of the large intestine in the digestive process?

Accepted Answer

Absorption of water and formation of solid feces

Question 6

Which nervous system is referred to as the 'brain of the gut' and what are its main plexuses?

Accepted Answer

Enteric Nervous System; myenteric and submucosal plexuses

Question 7

Which of the following is a function of gut flora in the gastrointestinal tract?

Accepted Answer

Salvage energy and nutrients from food

Question 8

During the process of fat digestion, which substance is responsible for emulsifying fats into tiny droplets?

Accepted Answer

Bile

Question 9

A patient with a damaged gastric mucosal barrier is at increased risk for which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcers due to acid and pepsin damage

Question 10

Which of the following correctly describes the role of the muscularis layer in the GI tract?

Accepted Answer

Contracts to move food along via peristalsis

Question 11

If the sympathetic nervous system is activated, what effect does it have on GI secretions?

Accepted Answer

Decreases secretions ('fight or flight')

Question 12

Which enzyme is responsible for the initial chemical digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth?

Accepted Answer

Salivary amylase

Question 13

A patient has a blockage in the common bile duct. Which digestive process will be most affected?

Accepted Answer

Emulsification and digestion of fats

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the function of secretin?

Accepted Answer

Stimulates secretion of bicarbonate-containing solution by the pancreas and liver

Question 15

Which brush border enzyme completes the digestion of maltose into two glucose molecules?

Accepted Answer

Maltase

Question 16

What is the main function of goblet cells in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Secrete mucus for protection

Question 17

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the source of water secreted into the GI tract daily?

Accepted Answer

It comes from the extracellular fluid (ECF) compartment

Question 18

A patient presents with impaired peristalsis in the GI tract. Which layer is most likely dysfunctional?

Accepted Answer

Muscularis (Circular & Longitudinal muscle layers)

Question 19

Which of the following is a multi-step process involving both hydrolysis and enzyme cleavage in the digestion of proteins?

Accepted Answer

Pepsinogen is converted to pepsin, which then hydrolyzes peptide bonds: $$\mathrm{Protein} + H$$_{2}$$O \xrightarrow{Pepsin} \mathrm{Peptides}$$

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why the small intestine has folds, villi, and microvilli?

Accepted Answer

To maximize the surface area for nutrient absorption

36 Patho

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards