Question

State the role of pancreatic juice in the digestion of proteins.

Answer 1

The pancreas is an organ located in the abdomen, which can function as both the exocrine and endocrine glands. The pancreas secretes a variety of enzymes which helps in the digestion of various components present in the ingested food.

Complete answer:
The pancreas secretes its enzymes into the duodenum, where the majority of the protein digestion takes place. The enzymes which help in protein digestion are Trypsin and Chymotrypsin. These break down big protein molecules into smaller fragments. These smaller fragments are known as Amino Acids, which are the simplest components present in proteins. The muscular contractions in the duodenum help inappropriate mixing up of the enzyme with the food particles. Generally, these are known as proteolytic enzymes or proteases. The protein molecules which are present as dipeptides or tripeptides are acted upon by these enzymes to produce the basic amino acids.

The absorption of these digested protein molecules happens in the jejunum or the duodenum portion of the small intestine. These molecules are absorbed utilizing the brush border epithelium of the small intestine utilizing active transport or facilitated diffusion.

Note: The exocrine portion of the pancreas is represented by the Islets of Langerhans. These cells secrete hormones directly into the bloodstream, thus they are known to have an endocrine function. The two hormones secreted are insulin and glucagon. They work together in maintaining the homeostasis of blood sugar levels. Insulin reduces the blood sugar levels, whereas glucagon increases the blood sugar levels. Any defect in the production of these hormones causes disorders such as Diabetes.