Final answer:
Pancreatic lipase is active in both the mouth and the pancreas because it is involved in the digestion of lipids. Lingual lipase starts the digestion in the mouth, while most lipid digestion occurs in the small intestine with the help of pancreatic lipase. The presence of pancreatic lipase in both locations ensures efficient lipid digestion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pancreatic lipase is active in both the mouth and the pancreas because it plays a crucial role in the digestion of lipids. In the mouth, lingual lipase begins the digestion of fats, but most lipid digestion occurs in the small intestine. Pancreatic lipase, produced by the pancreas, breaks down triglycerides into two free fatty acids and a monoglyceride.
In the pancreas, pancreatic lipase is produced in an inactive form to prevent self-digestion. The digestive enzymes are activated in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, with the help of the enzyme enteropeptidase. In the presence of bile, which emulsifies fats, pancreatic lipase can access and break down the lipids into individual fatty acid molecules.
Overall, the active presence of pancreatic lipase in both the mouth and the pancreas ensures efficient lipid digestion throughout the digestive system.