What enzyme contained in gastric juice?

Gastric juice, produced by the stomach as part of the digestive process, contains several important enzymes that aid in the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. The primary enzyme found in gastric juice is pepsin. Pepsin is a protease, an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptide fragments. It works best in acidic environments and is responsible for the initial breakdown of dietary proteins in the stomach.

In addition to pepsin, gastric juice also contains other enzymes and components:

- Hydrochloric acid (HCl): HCl creates an acidic environment in the stomach, which activates pepsin and kills or inhibits the growth of certain bacteria.

- Gastric lipase: A lesser-known enzyme that plays a role in the breakdown of dietary fats.

- Mucus: Mucus produced by the stomach helps to protect the delicate lining of the stomach from the acidic environment.

- Intrinsic factor: A glycoprotein essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine.

- Electrolytes: Gastric juice contains various electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, and chloride ions, which contribute to the overall composition and function of the fluid.

These components of gastric juice work collectively to prepare food for further digestion and absorption as it moves through the digestive system.