Digestion and Absorption of Proteins

Description

Digestion and absorption of proteins begin in the stomach, where pepsin breaks proteins into polypeptides. In the small intestine, pancreatic enzymes like trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase further degrade them into smaller peptides and amino acids. Brush border enzymes (e.g., dipeptidases) complete digestion. Amino acids, dipeptides, and tripeptides are absorbed through active transport in the intestinal mucosa and enter the portal circulation to reach the liver. This process ensures amino acids are available for protein synthesis and metabolism.