Return to MCAT® Blog Homepage

MCAT Biology Question — Small Intestine

The epithelial lining of the small intestine forms from which germ layer?

I. Endoderm

II. Mesoderm

III. Ectoderm

 

A. I only

B. II only

C. III only

D. I and II

Click for Explanation

As a guideline for the MCAT, the ectoderm forms outer coverings of body, e.g. skin/hair/nails, and the nervous system. The endoderm forms the lining of the digestive tract and most of the liver and pancreas. Mesoderm forms everything in-between, e.g. muscle, bone, circulatory system, heart, spleen, gonads.

I. Endoderm

II. Mesoderm

III. Ectoderm

 

A. I only, correct.

B. II only, incorrect: The mesoderm forms the tissues between the body’s outer coverings and the lining of the digestive tract.

C. III only, incorrect: The ectoderm forms the body’s outer coverings and nervous system.

D. I and II, incorrect: On the MCAT, organs and tissues will derive from one layer only.

Want more MCAT practice?

We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!

From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!

Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.

Create your Free Account to access our MCAT Flashcards SIGN UP NOW
MCAT is a registered trademark of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which is not affiliated with Blueprint.