What effect does celiac disease have on the villi in the small intestines?

Celiac disease leads to the atrophy of the villi in the small intestines. In people with this autoimmune condition, the ingestion of gluten triggers an inflammatory response that damages the mucosal lining, particularly affecting the villi, which are tiny, finger-like projections responsible for nutrient absorption. As the immune reaction continues, these villi become flattened or atrophied, significantly reducing the surface area available for nutrient absorption. This atrophy can lead to malabsorption of essential nutrients, which causes various gastrointestinal and systemic symptoms associated with celiac disease. The other choices do not accurately describe the impact of celiac disease on the villi, as the villi do not become longer, regenerate rapidly, or thicken significantly in the context of this condition.