7.2.1

Digestive System

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Enzymes in Digestion

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

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Functions of digestive enzymes

  • The digestive enzymes catalyse the breakdown of large, insoluble food molecules into smaller, soluble molecules that are then small enough to 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 three main digestive enzymes are:
    • Amylase
    • Protease
    • Lipase
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Enzymes in the small intestine

  • Enzymes in the small intestine operate best in alkaline conditions.
  • Bile neutralises acid from the stomach to stop these enzymes becoming denatured.
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Functions of bile

  • Bile breaks up fats into tiny droplets, through a process called emulsification.
  • The tiny droplets have a higher surface area than the original fat drop.
  • This increases the rate of the lipase-catalysed reactions that break fats down.

Jump to other topics

1Classification of Living Organisms

2Organisation of the Organism

3Movement Into & Out of Cells

4Biological Molecules

5Enzymes

6Plant Nutrition

7Human Nutrition

8Transport in Plants

9Transport in Animals

10Diseases & Immunity

11Gas Exchange in Humans

12Respiration

13Excretion in Humans

14Coordination & Response

15Drugs

16Reproduction

17Inheritance

18Variation & Selection

19Organisms & Their Environment

20Human Influence on Ecosystems

21Biotechnology & Genetic Modification

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