2.2.6

Digestion

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Enzymes in Digestion

Digestive enzymes are made by specialised cells in the glands and the gut lining. They are then secreted (released) out of the body cells and into the cavity of the digestive system.

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Breakdown large food molecules

  • The digestive enzymes catalyse (speed up) the breaking down of large and insoluble molecules of food into smaller, soluble molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
  • Digested molecules can be used to construct new carbohydrates, proteins and lipids in the body.
  • Some glucose produced by digestion is used for respiration.
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Enzymes in digestion

  • The 3 main digestive enzymes are:
    • Amylase
    • Protease
    • Lipase

Jump to other topics

1Cell Biology

1.1What's in Cells?

1.2Cell Division

1.3Transport in Cells

2Organisation

2.1Principles of Organisation

2.2Enzymes

2.3Circulatory System

2.4Non-Communicable Diseases

2.5Plant Tissues, Organs & Systems

3Infection & Response

4Bioenergetics

5Homeostasis & Response

5.1Homeostasis

5.2The Human Nervous System

5.3Hormonal Coordination in Humans

5.4Plant Hormones

6Inheritance, Variation & Evolution

7Ecology

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