Fill in the Blank QuestionFill in the blank question.In the small intestine, the aggregate MALT nodules are called patches.

In the small intestine, the aggregate MALT nodules are called Peyer’s patches.

Peyer's patches are specialized lymphoid tissues located within the mucosal layer of the small intestine, particularly in the ileum. They play a critical role in the immune response by monitoring intestinal bacteria populations and preventing the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the intestines. Each patch is composed of a cluster of lymphoid follicles and is essential in the development of immune responses to antigens present in the gut. The presence of these structures emphasizes the importance of gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) in maintaining a balanced immune system while allowing for the absorption of nutrients.