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Multiple Choice
Which of the following substances participates in the digestion of proteins?
A
Lactase
B
Lipase
C
Pepsin
D
Amylase
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of enzymes in digestion: Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the breakdown of macromolecules into smaller units. Proteins are broken down into amino acids by specific enzymes.
Identify the function of each enzyme listed: Lactase breaks down lactose (a sugar found in milk), lipase breaks down lipids (fats), amylase breaks down carbohydrates (starch), and pepsin is involved in protein digestion.
Focus on protein digestion: Proteins are large macromolecules that need to be broken down into smaller peptides and amino acids for absorption. Pepsin is a protease enzyme that specifically catalyzes the hydrolysis of peptide bonds in proteins.
Understand where pepsin works: Pepsin is active in the stomach, where the acidic environment (low pH) activates its precursor, pepsinogen, into its active form. This acidic environment is crucial for pepsin's function.
Conclude that pepsin is the correct answer: Based on the functions of the enzymes listed, pepsin is the enzyme that participates in the digestion of proteins.