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Digestion & absorption intestinale

Protease

Digestive enzyme breaking down proteins into amino acids.

Definition

Class of enzymes produced by the pancreas and stomach that break down proteins into amino acids for absorption.

How it works

Proteases are a group of essential enzymes for protein digestion. They include pepsin (produced by the stomach) which initiates protein digestion, and pancreatic proteases (trypsin, chymotrypsin, carboxypeptidases) which complete the process in the small intestine. These enzymes break peptide bonds linking amino acids, releasing individual amino acids or small peptides. The resulting amino acids are absorbed by the intestinal epithelium and used for the synthesis of body protein. A deficiency in proteases can lead to protein malnutrition even with adequate consumption.

Role

Breaking down proteins into free amino acids for absorption and body use.

Examples

  • Digestion of a chicken cutlet
  • Protein degradation in cheese
  • Fish transformation

Recommendations

Consume high-quality proteins from various sources. Masticate well protein-rich foods to facilitate digestion. Avoid excessively protein-rich meals which can overwhelm digestive capacity.

Key takeaway

Proteases transform dietary proteins into essential amino acids for life.

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