Final answer:
The digestion and absorption of proteins involves enzymes like pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, elastase, and carboxypeptidase. Pepsin breaks down proteins into peptides, while the other enzymes act in the small intestine to further break down peptides into smaller peptides or amino acids. The final breakdown into single amino acids is facilitated by peptidases, and the amino acids are absorbed into the bloodstream.
Step-by-step explanation:
The digestion and absorption of proteins involves several enzymes including pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, elastase, and carboxypeptidase. Pepsin, which is produced in the stomach, breaks down proteins into peptides. Trypsin, elastase, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase are produced in the pancreas and act in the small intestine to further break down peptides into smaller peptides or amino acids. The final breakdown of peptides into single amino acids is facilitated by enzymes called peptidases. The amino acids are then absorbed into the bloodstream through the small intestine.