Which enzyme is responsible for breaking down lipids?

Lipase is the enzyme specifically responsible for breaking down lipids, which include fats and oils. This enzyme facilitates the hydrolysis of triglycerides into glycerol and free fatty acids, allowing the body to utilize fats as a source of energy.

Lipase is primarily produced in the pancreas and secreted into the small intestine, where it acts in conjunction with bile salts to efficiently emulsify fats, making them more accessible for digestion. This process is crucial for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and fatty acids, directly impacting nutritional health and metabolism.

Other enzymes listed have distinct functions in the digestive process. For example, amylase breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars, trypsin is responsible for proteins, and pepsin also acts on proteins in the acidic environment of the stomach. Thus, lipase's role in lipid digestion is specialized and vital for proper nutrient absorption.