Pepsin is secreted in an inactive form as pepsinogen because
Correct answer: A. an active enzyme would digest the protein of the cells that make it
- A. an active enzyme would digest the protein of the cells that make it
- B. pepsinogen is easier to store in the blood
- C. pepsin cannot be transported across a membrane
- D. pepsinogen digests fat before it is converted
Explanation
Pepsin is a protease, and the cells that secrete it are themselves made of protein, so it is released as an inactive precursor and converted to the active enzyme by hydrochloric acid only after it is safely inside the stomach lumen. Trypsin is handled in the same way, being secreted as trypsinogen and activated by enterokinase in the duodenum. This is a general safety principle for digestive proteases.
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About Human Digestive System
The human digestive system breaks food into absorbable molecules through mechanical processing, enzyme action and chemical conditions along the alimentary canal. Questions cover the mouth, stomach, small and large intestines, liver, pancreas and associated secretions, including the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, minerals and water.
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