Protease

Definition

Proteases are enzymes that break down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids. They play a crucial role in the digestive process by facilitating protein digestion.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Proteases are secreted by the stomach, pancreas, and small intestine.
2. They operate optimally at different pH levels depending on their location within the digestive system.
3. Pepsin is a protease found in the stomach that works best in acidic conditions.
4. Trypsin and chymotrypsin are produced by the pancreas and function in the small intestine.
5. Inhibitors of proteases can be used therapeutically to treat diseases like HIV/AIDS.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of proteases in digestion?
• Name two proteases that are secreted by the pancreas and their site of action.
• How do pH levels affect the activity of different proteases?

Related terms

Pepsin:

A protease enzyme found in the stomach that breaks down proteins into peptides.

Trypsin:

A pancreatic enzyme that continues protein digestion in the small intestine.

Chymotrypsin:

Another pancreatic enzyme that aids in digesting proteins in the small intestine.