Sucrases

Definition

Sucrases are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of sucrose into glucose and fructose. They play a crucial role in carbohydrate digestion within the small intestine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sucrases are primarily located on the brush border of the small intestine's epithelial cells.
2. They break down sucrose, a disaccharide, into two monosaccharides: glucose and fructose.
3. Deficiency in sucrase can lead to sucrose intolerance, causing gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and diarrhea.
4. Sucrases work optimally at the slightly alkaline pH found in the small intestine.
5. These enzymes are crucial for providing energy as they help release glucose, which is a primary energy source for body cells.

Review Questions

• Where in the digestive system are sucrases primarily active?
• What monosaccharides result from the action of sucrase on sucrose?
• What condition might arise from a deficiency in sucrase activity?

Related terms

Lactase: An enzyme that breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose.

Maltase: An enzyme that breaks down maltose into two glucose molecules.

Brush Border: The microvilli-covered surface of epithelial cells in the small intestine where digestive enzymes like sucrases are located.