Select the best explanation for why protease enzymes are secreted in inactive forms.
A) Inactive enzymes will simply be expelled with the feces if no protein is present in the digesting food, this will help to conserve energy.
B) The immunoglobulins protecting the digestive tract would be digested without proper regulation of protein digesting enzymes.
C) The enzymes would digest each other if they were not properly regulated.
D) The cells producing inactive enzymes are themselves protected from the enzymes until they are safely within the lumen of the GI tract.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cells producing inactive enzymes are themselves protected from the enzymes until they are safely within the lumen of the GI tract. This ensures that the protease enzymes don't accidentally start breaking down proteins inside the cells producing them or in other parts of the body where protein breakdown is not desired. Once safely in the lumen, the enzymes can be activated to start digesting proteins. This helps to prevent damage to the body's own tissues and maximizes the efficiency of protein digestion in the small intestine.

Select the Best Explanation for Why Protease Enzymes Are Secreted