Amylase, proteases and lipasesSpec 4.2.2.1
Three types of digestive enzyme break the three main food molecules into small, soluble molecules. You need to recall where each is made and what it does.
| Enzyme | Breaks down | Into | Made in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amylase (a carbohydrase) | Starch | Simple sugars | Salivary glands, pancreas, small intestine |
| Protease | Proteins | Amino acids | Stomach, pancreas, small intestine |
| Lipase | Lipids (fats) | Glycerol and fatty acids | Pancreas, small intestine |
Carbohydrases break down carbohydrates to simple sugars. Amylase is a carbohydrase which breaks down starch.
You only need simple word equations, not chemical symbol equations.
starch → simple sugars (catalysed by amylase)
protein → amino acids (catalysed by protease)
lipid (fat) → glycerol + fatty acids (catalysed by lipase)
The products of digestion are used to build new carbohydrates, lipids and proteins. Some glucose is used in respiration.