Problem 42 - A Complete Resource Book in Chemistry for JEE Main

Question

The enzyme which hydrolyses triglycerides to fatty acids and glycerol is called (a) pepsin (b) zymase (c) maltose (d) lipase

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The enzyme is lipase (d).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the name of the enzyme that breaks down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. In simpler terms, we're looking for a specific enzyme known for its role in lipid (fat) metabolism.

Step 2: Identifying Triglycerides Hydrolysis

Triglycerides are fats that need to be broken down during digestion. The hydrolysis process involves breaking down these triglycerides into smaller components: fatty acids and glycerol. Recognizing this process is crucial before associating the enzyme.

Step 3: Examining the Options

The options provided are: (a) pepsin, (b) zymase, (c) maltose, and (d) lipase. We need to determine which one is related to fat digestion or metabolism.

Step 4: Analyzing Each Option

- Pepsin is an enzyme that digests proteins, not fats. - Zymase is involved in the fermentation of sugars, not fats. - Maltose isn't an enzyme, it's a type of sugar. - Lipase is known for breaking down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Step 5: Selecting the Correct Answer

Based on the analysis, lipase is the enzyme that hydrolyzes triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. Thus, the correct answer is (d) lipase.

Key Concepts

Lipid Metabolism

Lipid metabolism is the complex biochemical process involving the breakdown, synthesis, and utilization of fats within the body. It plays a critical role in energy production and storage. Lipids, primarily in the form of triglycerides, undergo various transformations to meet the body's energy needs.

Key aspects include:

• Energy Storage: Triglycerides stored in adipose tissue serve as a major energy reserve. When the body requires energy, these triglycerides are broken down.
• Energy Mobilization: During periods of fasting or low carbohydrate intake, stored fats are mobilized and converted into fatty acids and glycerol. These components are further processed through beta-oxidation to produce energy.
• Synthesis: Apart from breaking down fats for energy, the body can also synthesize triglycerides from excess carbohydrates and circulate them in the bloodstream for future use.

Understanding lipid metabolism is crucial not only for comprehending how the body manages its energy resources but also for understanding conditions related to metabolic health, such as obesity and diabetes.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in the body and are crucial for energy metabolism. They consist of one glycerol molecule bonded to three fatty acids. These fats are ingested through diet and synthesized endogenously.

Important points to consider about triglycerides include:

• Dietary Source: Triglycerides are absorbed from foods high in fats, such as butter, oils, and animal products.
• Synthesis and Storage: Excess calories from carbohydrates and fats are converted into triglycerides and stored in adipose tissue.
• Health Implications: While triglycerides are essential, high levels in the bloodstream can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Triglycerides serve as a reliable energy source during fasting periods due to their high energy density, emphasizing their role in sustaining bodily functions when dietary intake is limited.

Fat Digestion

Fat digestion is a vital process that enables the absorption and utilization of dietary fats. It involves the systematic breakdown of fats into simpler substances that the body can absorb.

Here’s how it works:

• Digestion Initiation: Fat digestion begins in the small intestine, where bile acids from the liver emulsify fats, increasing their surface area for enzymatic action.
• Enzymatic Breakdown: Lipase, a crucial enzyme in fat digestion, hydrolyzes triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol.
• Absorption: The resulting fatty acids and monoglycerides are absorbed through the intestinal wall and reassembled into triglycerides within intestinal cells for transport throughout the body.

This digestion process not only ensures the availability of fats for energy production but also facilitates the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as A, D, E, and K, which are essential for various bodily functions.