fehérjeemészt

Fehérjeemészt refers to the process of protein digestion in living organisms. It is a crucial part of metabolism, breaking down complex proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids, which can then be absorbed and utilized by the body. This process begins in the stomach and continues in the small intestine.

In the stomach, hydrochloric acid and the enzyme pepsin initiate the breakdown of proteins. Hydrochloric acid denatures the proteins, unfolding their complex structures, making them more accessible to enzymes. Pepsin then cleaves peptide bonds, breaking down large proteins into smaller polypeptides.

The partially digested polypeptides then move into the small intestine. Here, pancreatic enzymes like trypsin and chymotrypsin, secreted by the pancreas, further break down the polypeptides into smaller peptides. Finally, enzymes located in the lining of the small intestine, called peptidases, break down these smaller peptides into individual amino acids. These amino acids are then absorbed through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream, where they are transported to cells to be used for building and repairing tissues, synthesizing enzymes, hormones, and other vital molecules. If proteins are not properly digested, it can lead to malabsorption issues and nutritional deficiencies.