what is the major function of microvilli?
Microvilli are the minute finger- like elongated projections of the plasma membrane which exhibit a core of thin microfilaments. These microfilaments are held together to form bundles by cross-linking proteins known as villin and fimbrin. The main function of the microvilli is the absorption of certain substances. Cells produce microvilli, mainly, to increase the surface area for absorption (intestine surface), to transport absorbed materials, and to participate in the digestion of carbohydrates. In general, the length of a microvillus is about 0.5 to 1.0 Âµm and the diameter is about 0.1 Âµm.