Digestive enzyme

Digestive Enzyme

Digestive enzymes are a group of enzymes that break down polymeric macromolecules into their smaller building blocks, in order to facilitate their absorption by the body.

Pronunciation

/dɪˈdʒɛstɪv ˈɛnzaɪm/

Etymology

The term "digestive enzyme" is derived from the Latin word "digestio" which means "distribution" and the Greek word "enzymos" which means "leavened".

Function

Digestive enzymes are primarily produced in the pancreas and secreted into the duodenum where they begin the process of digestion. They are also produced in other parts of the digestive system, including the stomach and the salivary glands.

Types of Digestive Enzymes

There are three main types of digestive enzymes:

• Proteases: Break down proteins into amino acids.
• Amylases: Break down carbohydrates into simple sugars.
• Lipases: Break down fat into three fatty acids and a glycerol molecule.

Related Terms

• Enzyme
• Pancreas
• Duodenum
• Digestive system
• Stomach
• Salivary glands
• Proteases
• Amylases
• Lipases
• Amino acids

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Digestive enzyme
• Wikipedia's article - Digestive enzyme

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