Which organs produce the enzyme lipase needed for triglyceride digestion?

The primary organs that produce the enzyme lipase needed for triglyceride digestion are:

1. Pancreas: The pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach, produces and releases pancreatic lipase into the small intestine. Pancreatic lipase is the main enzyme responsible for breaking down the majority of dietary triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol.

2. Stomach: The stomach produces a small amount of gastric lipase, which begins the digestion of triglycerides in the stomach. However, gastric lipase is less significant in triglyceride digestion compared to pancreatic lipase.

3. Small intestine: The small intestine, particularly the epithelial cells lining the intestinal wall, produces a lesser amount of lipase called intestinal lipase. Intestinal lipase plays a complementary role in triglyceride digestion, especially when there is insufficient pancreatic lipase.

4. Lingual lipase: Produced by the salivary glands, lingual lipase is found in the saliva. It starts breaking down triglycerides in the mouth, but its contribution to overall triglyceride digestion is minor compared to pancreatic lipase.