Certain cells, such as those along the digestive tract, need to absorb a lot of materials. What unique functions do you notice about the shape of these cells? How might this improve their ability to absorb materials?

Microvilli is very common in these cells. They increase the absorption area.

Explanation:

Epithelial cell surfaces show different structure shapes that allow the cells to adapt to and accomplish their functions. Most of these structures are related to the absorption surface and the need to move substances.

The development of microvilli is very common in epithelial cells. These are folds or finger-like projections emerging from the apical surface of the cell. Their principal function is to absorb. The microvilli of the intestinal epithelium are very uniform in size and distribution.