Digestive enzymes
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Digestive Enzymes: Functions, Sources, and Applications
Introduction to Digestive Enzymes
Digestive enzymes are crucial for the breakdown of macronutrients—proteins, carbohydrates, and fats—into smaller molecules that the body can absorb and utilize. These enzymes enhance nutrient availability, improve food tolerance, and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and flatulence.
Types and Functions of Digestive Enzymes
Proteolytic Enzymes
Proteolytic enzymes, including protease, papain, and bromelain, break down proteins into peptides and amino acids. These enzymes are essential for protein digestion and are measured in units such as HUT (Haemoglobin Unit) and SAPU (Spectrophotometric Acid Protease Units).
Carbohydrate-Digesting Enzymes
Amylase and glucoamylase are responsible for breaking down complex sugars into simpler sugars. Amylase activity is expressed in DU (Dextrinising Units), while glucoamylase activity is measured in AGU (Amyloglucosidase Units). Lactase, another carbohydrate-digesting enzyme, breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose, and its activity is expressed in ALU (Acid Lactase Units).
Lipid-Digesting Enzymes
Lipase is the primary enzyme for fat digestion, increasing the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A and D. Lipase activity is measured in FIP (Federation Internationale Pharmaceutique) units.
Sources of Digestive Enzymes
Animal-Derived Enzymes
Animal-derived enzymes, such as those from the pancreas, are a standard treatment for enzyme deficiencies. These enzymes are effective but can be degraded in the stomach, limiting their activity.
Plant and Microbe-Derived Enzymes
Plant-based and microbe-derived enzymes are gaining attention due to their stability and effectiveness across a broader pH range (2-8), making them active throughout the gastrointestinal tract. These enzymes are also free from fungal residues and unpleasant flavors, making them suitable for human consumption .
Applications in Gastrointestinal Disorders
Enzyme Supplementation
Supplementing with digestive enzymes can manage various gastrointestinal disorders, from lactose intolerance to cystic fibrosis. Combining different enzymes may offer a more comprehensive therapeutic approach.
Enhancing Diet Digestibility
In animal studies, exogenous enzyme supplementation has shown to improve the digestibility of diets rich in plant feedstuffs. For instance, in turbot juveniles, enzyme complexes like Synergen® and Natugrain®TS increased the digestibility of proteins, lipids, and certain amino acids, while also enhancing gut microbiota diversity.
Future Perspectives
Enteropancreatic Circulation
Recent studies suggest that digestive enzymes might be absorbed into the bloodstream, reaccumulated by the pancreas, and reused, challenging the traditional view that new enzymes are secreted with each meal.
Polyphenolic Compounds Interaction
Polyphenolic compounds (PCs) can inhibit digestive enzymes through non-covalent interactions, such as van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding. This inhibition varies based on the molecular structure of PCs and affects carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes and proteases differently.
Conclusion
Digestive enzymes play a vital role in nutrient absorption and gastrointestinal health. While animal-derived enzymes remain a standard treatment, plant and microbe-derived enzymes offer promising alternatives due to their stability and broad pH activity. Future research may further optimize enzyme supplementation strategies and explore innovative applications, such as the enteropancreatic circulation of enzymes and the interaction with polyphenolic compounds.
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