What is the protease enzyme responsible for digesting proteins in the small intestine?

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

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that protease enzymes are responsible for breaking down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids.
2. Recall that digestion of proteins begins in the stomach with the enzyme pepsin, but continues in the small intestine.
3. Identify the main protease enzyme active in the small intestine, which is trypsin.
4. Note that trypsin is secreted by the pancreas in an inactive form called trypsinogen, which is then activated in the small intestine.
5. Recognize that lipase and amylase are enzymes that digest fats and carbohydrates, respectively, and are not involved in protein digestion.