Enzymes and the digestive system Flashcards
What is amylase?
A carbohydrase enzyme which breaks down starch into simple sugars.
What is protease?
A type of enzyme which breaks down proteins into amino acids
What is lipase?
A type of enzyme which breaks ddown lipids into fatty acids and glycerol
What is the role of the salivary glands?
- Saliva acts as a lubricant making it easier to swallow food
- Contains amylase
What is the role of the oesophagus?
Its only function is to move food to the stomach
What is the role of the stomach?
Releases protease
Releases acid, which reduces the pH of the stomach to the optimum level for protease enzymes to function
Part of the first line of defence against infection
What is the role of the liver?
Produces bile, which emulsifies fats
What is the role of the gall bladder?
Stores bile
What is the role of the pancreas?
Produces carbohydrase enzymes, proteaase enzymes and lipase enzymes. It releases these into the top section of the small intestine
What is the role of the small intestine?
Responsible for absorbing the products of digestion into the blood
What is the role of the large intestine?
responsible for absorbing water and salts from the remaining digested food
