Question

Pepsin, an enzyme that is found in the stomach of humans, functions in breaking down proteins. It is denatured as it travels to the small intestine and can no longer decompose proteins. Which factor most likely causes the enzyme to denature as it moves through the digestive tract?

A. pH

B. substrate concentration

C. enzyme concentration

D. temperature

Answer 1

A. pH

Step-by-step explanation:

Denaturation of proteins is a protein whereby the protein molecule loses its primary structure and ultimately its physical functioning as a result of factors including pH, temperature or concentration of chemicals. Based on this definition, it is visible that denaturation of proteins can be caused by these three factors: pH, chemical and temperature.

However, in this case of PEPSIN enzyme, which is a proteinous molecule produced in the stomach of humans and functions in breaking down proteins, its denaturation occurs as it moves along the digestive tract to the intestines. This is as a result of the changes in pH in the digestive tract.

The pH of the stomach where pepsin is produced is acidic i.e. <3.0. However, as one moves towards the intestine, the pH increases, which is unfavorable or considered harsh for the pepsin enzyme. Hence, it gets denatured.