Pepsin

Pepsin: functions and mechanisms of action

Pepsin is a major digestive enzyme that plays an important role in the breakdown of proteins in the stomach. It is one of the key components of gastric juice and is responsible for the effective digestion of protein compounds.

Mechanism of pepsin formation

Pepsin is formed in the stomach cavity, where gastric secretions are mixed with food. Pepsinogen, an inactive form of pepsin, is produced by the gastric glands and enters the stomach along with gastric juice. Under the influence of hydrochloric acid, pepsinogen is converted into pepsin, which begins to break down proteins into simpler compounds.

Mechanism of action of pepsin

Pepsin acts on proteins, breaking them into smaller components such as peptones. It works in the acidic environment of the stomach, where hydrochloric acid provides optimal conditions for its functioning. Pepsin is an endopeptidase, that is, an enzyme that breaks down protein bonds within protein molecules. Pepsin has high specificity for the amino acid sequence of proteins, which allows it to accurately cleave only certain bonds.

Functions of pepsin

Pepsin plays a key role in the digestion of proteins in the stomach. It breaks down proteins into smaller components, which can then be further broken down by other enzymes in the intestines. Without pepsin, the digestion of protein compounds would be impossible.

In addition, pepsin is one of the factors that protect the body from pathogenic microorganisms. It can destroy bacteria and viruses that enter the gastric environment along with food.

Conclusion

Pepsin is an important enzyme that plays a key role in the digestion of proteins in the stomach. It is formed in the stomach cavity from pepsinogen under the influence of hydrochloric acid. Pepsin breaks down proteins into simpler compounds, allowing the body to obtain the nutrients it needs. Without pepsin, the digestion of protein compounds would be impossible, so it plays an important role in the human digestive system.

Dear readers, today we will talk about an important component of gastrointestinal health - pepsin. This article will help you understand the basic facts about pepsin, its importance for normal digestion and its effects on the body.

Pepsin refers to enzymes that are an important part of the mechanism of digestion and absorption of food in the gastrointestinal tract. Ve