What is the enzyme used to digest fats and site of action?

The enzyme responsible for digesting fats is called lipase. There are several types of lipases, including pancreatic lipase and hepatic lipase, which are involved in the digestion and metabolism of fats in different parts of the body.

Site of Action:

* Pancreatic lipase: This lipase is produced by the pancreas and secreted into the small intestine. It is the primary enzyme involved in the digestion of dietary fats. Pancreatic lipase works best in an alkaline environment and requires the presence of bile salts to emulsify fats and increase their surface area for efficient enzymatic action. It breaks down triglycerides (the most common form of dietary fat) into smaller components such as fatty acids and glycerol.

* Hepatic lipase: Hepatic lipase is produced by the liver and plays a role in the metabolism of fats within the liver. It is found in the liver cells (hepatocytes) and helps in the breakdown and processing of fats for energy production or storage. Hepatic lipase also participates in the regulation of lipoprotein metabolism, influencing the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream.

The bile salts (produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder) play a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats. They emulsify fats, breaking them down into smaller droplets, which increases their exposure to lipases and facilitates the enzymatic breakdown of triglycerides.