Digestive Enzymes
Biology: Edexcel IGCSE, topic 2.3.17
Enzymes in Digestion
Digestive enzymes are produced in the glands and the lining of the gut. They are then secreted (released) out of the body cells and into the alimentary canal. Digestive enzymes are used to:
Chemical digestion
- 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.
Enzymes in digestion
- Examples of digestive enzymes are:
- Amylase
- Maltase
- Protease
- Lipase
Test yourself on Digestive Enzymes
Why is it necessary to breakdown large, insoluble food molecules into smaller, soluble molecules?