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Multiple Choice
In the digestive system, what type of macromolecule does the enzyme pepsin primarily break down?
A
Nucleic acids
B
Lipids
C
Carbohydrates
D
Proteins
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of pepsin in the digestive system: Pepsin is an enzyme that is secreted by the stomach lining and plays a crucial role in the digestion of food.
Identify the primary function of pepsin: Pepsin is specifically designed to break down proteins into smaller peptides. This process is known as proteolysis.
Recall the environment where pepsin is active: Pepsin functions optimally in the acidic environment of the stomach, where it begins the digestion of proteins.
Differentiate between macromolecules: Recognize that the main types of macromolecules in food are proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.
Conclude the specific macromolecule pepsin targets: Based on its function and environment, pepsin primarily breaks down proteins, not nucleic acids, lipids, or carbohydrates.