Final answer:
The pancreas produces enzymes such as amylase, trypsin, chymotrypsin, pancreatic lipase, deoxyribonuclease, and ribonuclease to help break down carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and nucleic acids, respectively. These enzymes are secreted in an inactive form and are activated in the small intestine to aid in digestion.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by producing enzymes that break down various macromolecules. The juices from the pancreas contain a variety of powerful enzymes, which are produced in an inactive form to prevent the digestion of the pancreas itself. These enzymes include:
Amylase - Helps to digest starch and other carbohydrates into smaller sugar molecules.
Trypsin and chymotrypsin - Assist in breaking down proteins into amino acids.
Pancreatic lipase - Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
Deoxyribonuclease and ribonuclease - Enzymes that break bonds in nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA.
These enzymes are activated in the small intestine, where they work to further the digestion process. The pancreas also secretes bicarbonate to neutralize the acidity of the small intestine, creating an optimal environment for these enzymes to function.