Lingual lipase

Definition

Lingual lipase is an enzyme secreted by the salivary glands that initiates the digestion of dietary fats in the mouth. It plays a crucial role in breaking down triglycerides into free fatty acids and diglycerides.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1. Lingual lipase is active at an acidic pH, making it effective in the stomach as well as the mouth.
2. 2. It specifically targets medium- and long-chain triglycerides.
3. 3. This enzyme is particularly important for infants, who rely heavily on milk fats.
4. 4. Lingual lipase continues to function even when it reaches the stomach, contributing significantly to fat digestion alongside gastric lipase.
5. 5. It is most effective in individuals with lower pancreatic lipase activity, providing a compensatory mechanism for fat digestion.

Review Questions

• 1. Where is lingual lipase secreted and what role does it play in fat digestion?
• 2. Why is lingual lipase particularly important for infants?
• 3. How does lingual lipase continue to aid in fat digestion once it reaches the stomach?

Related terms

triglyceride: A type of fat molecule composed of three fatty acid chains attached to a glycerol backbone, which must be broken down during digestion.

gastric lipase: An enzyme produced by the stomach that further breaks down fats after they leave the mouth.

pancreatic lipase: An enzyme released by the pancreas into the small intestine that plays a major role in digesting dietary fats.