Pancreatic lipase

Definition

Pancreatic lipase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that breaks down dietary fats into smaller molecules called fatty acids and glycerol, facilitating their absorption in the small intestine. It plays a critical role in the digestive system by enabling the body to utilize fat from foods.

Related terms

Enzymes: Proteins that catalyze and accelerate chemical reactions in the body without being consumed or altered.

Digestive System: The system of organs responsible for breaking down food into nutrients the body can absorb and use for energy, growth, and cell repair.

Absorption: The process by which nutrients from digested food are taken into the bloodstream from the intestine