Q. 18.9 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

What is the role of bile salt in lipid digestion?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The electrical charges of the heavily ionised bile salts make these micelles extremely soluble, facilitating their transfer to the intestinal brush border's absorptive surfaces.

Step 1: Given information

We have tell the the role of bile salt in lipid digestion.

Step 2: Explanation

Bile salts have two significant roles in the digestive system:

Emulsify huge fat droplets into little ones, acting as detergents. This activity increases lipid absorption by increasing the surface area available for lipase action in the small intestine.

With the emulsified lipids, form micelles, which are tiny complexes. The electrical charges of the heavily ionised bile salts make these micelles extremely soluble, facilitating their transfer to the intestinal brush border's absorptive surfaces.