Question

Which of the following enzymes is responsible for breaking down starch into maltose during digestion in humans?

• A. Trypsin
• B. Amylase
• C. Lipase
• D. Pepsin

Hint:

To identify the correct enzyme in digestion-related questions, match the substrate (e.g., starch) with the enzyme’s specific function. Amylase is specific to carbohydrates, while trypsin and pepsin act on proteins, and lipase acts on fats.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Digestion of carbohydrates begins in the mouth and continues in the small intestine. Starch, a polysaccharide, is broken down into simpler sugars during digestion. The enzyme responsible for this process is amylase.
- Salivary amylase (also called ptyalin), secreted by the salivary glands in the mouth, initiates the breakdown of starch into maltose, a disaccharide.
- Pancreatic amylase, secreted by the pancreas into the small intestine, continues the digestion of starch and glycogen into maltose.
Maltose is later broken down into glucose by the enzyme maltase in the small intestine. The other enzymes listed have different functions: - Trypsin: Breaks down proteins into peptides in the small intestine.
- Lipase: Digests fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
- Pepsin: Digests proteins into peptides in the stomach.
Thus, the enzyme responsible for breaking down starch into maltose is amylase.