What is the function of the enzyme pepsin?
The human digestive system is an amazing and complex system to which many scientists devote their entire lives studying. The digestive system uses a variety of enzymes to help break down the food we eat. Pepsin is one of these many enzymes.FunctionPepsin’s role in the digestive process is to help break down the protein and starches that we eat.SourcePepsin is produced and secreted by the mucosal lining of our stomach.ActivationPepsin is secreted in an inactive form called pepsinogen. The acid in our stomachs activates the pepsinogen and turns it into pepsin.ConsiderationsPepsin does not function when the pH of the stomach is above 4. Antacids work by raising the pH of the stomach to a level of 6 or 7. Thus, antacids stop pepsin from being able to break down proteins to aid in regular digestion.Fun FactsPepsin is used to make cheese and other protein-rich foods. Cadbury Adams, the producers of the Cadbury Creme Egg, produced a gum made from pepsin powder that was marketed as a digestive
