1.4.12

Enzymes in Digestion

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Enzymes in Digestion

Digestive enzymes are produced by specialised cells (perform a specific function) in the glands and the lining of the gut. They are then secreted (released) out of the body cells and into the cavity of the digestive system. Digestive enzymes are used to:

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Breakdown large food molecules

  • The digestive enzymes catalyse (speed up) the breakdown of large, insoluble food molecules into smaller, soluble (can be dissolved) 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 3 main digestive enzymes are:
    • Amylase
    • Protease
    • Lipase

Jump to other topics

1Biology

1.1Cells, Tissues & Organs

1.2Reproduction & Variation

1.3Ecological Relationships & Classification

1.4Digestion & Nutrition

1.5Plants & Photosynthesis

1.6Biological Systems & Processes

2Chemistry

2.1Particles

2.2Chemical Reactions

2.3Atoms, Elements, Compounds

2.4The Periodic Table

2.5Materials & the Earth

2.6Reactivity

2.7Energetics

2.8Properties of Materials

3Physics

3.1Energy

3.2Forces & Motion

3.3Waves

3.4Electricity & Magnetism

3.5Matter

3.6Space Physics

4Thinking Scientifically

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