Bio Homework 25: Lactase and Human Milk Consumption

Front

What is lactase?

Back

Lactase is an enzyme that breaks down lactose, a sugar found in milk, into glucose and galactose.

Front

What is the function of lactase in the human body?

Back

Lactase helps digest lactose by breaking it down into smaller sugars (glucose and galactose) that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Front

What happens to lactose in the absence of lactase?

Back

Without lactase, lactose remains undigested and can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea.

Front

What is lactose?

Back

Lactose is a disaccharide sugar composed of glucose and galactose, found in milk and dairy products.

Front

Why is enzyme specificity important?

Back

Enzyme specificity ensures that enzymes only catalyze specific reactions, preventing unwanted reactions and maintaining metabolic efficiency.

Front

What are the products of lactose digestion by lactase?

Back

The products of lactose digestion by lactase are glucose and galactose.

Front

How does lactase deficiency affect digestion?

Back

Lactase deficiency leads to lactose intolerance, where undigested lactose ferments in the gut, causing gas, bloating, and diarrhea.

Front

What role do enzymes play in biochemical reactions?

Back

Enzymes act as catalysts that speed up biochemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

Front

What is the relationship between enzyme structure and function?

Back

The specific shape of an enzyme determines its ability to bind to its substrate and catalyze a reaction.

Front

What are some symptoms of lactose intolerance?

Back

Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain after consuming dairy products.