pepsinógeno

Pepsinógeno, also known as pepsinogen, is a zymogen, or inactive precursor, of the enzyme pepsin. It is primarily produced by the chief cells of the stomach's gastric glands. Pepsinógeno is a single-chain polypeptide with a molecular weight of approximately 80 kDa. Its primary function is to convert into the active enzyme pepsin in the acidic environment of the stomach.

The conversion of pepsinógeno to pepsin occurs through a process called autolysis, where the acidic environment of the stomach lowers the pH, causing the pepsinógeno molecule to unfold and split into two active chains: the C-terminal chain, which remains attached to the N-terminal chain, and the N-terminal chain, which becomes the active pepsin enzyme. This activation is crucial for the digestion of proteins in the stomach.

Pepsinógeno is also found in the saliva of some animals, including humans, where it plays a role in the initial stages of protein digestion. However, in humans, the primary role of pepsinógeno is within the stomach. The levels of pepsinógeno can be influenced by various factors, including diet, age, and certain medical conditions. Abnormal levels of pepsinógeno may indicate underlying health issues, such as gastric ulcers or other gastrointestinal disorders.