Enzymes and Digestion of Carbs, Proteins, Fats · Physiology

Trypsin is a highly 'dangerous' enzyme if activated prematurely. Which mechanism protects the pancreas from accidental autodigestion by trypsin?

  1. The low pH of the pancreatic duct
  2. The presence of Pancreatic Secretory Trypsin Inhibitor (PSTI)
  3. The secretion of trypsin in its active form so it can be washed away
  4. The absence of water in the pancreatic acini
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: The presence of Pancreatic Secretory Trypsin Inhibitor (PSTI)

The pancreas produces PSTI (also called SPINK1), which binds to and inactivates any trypsin that is accidentally activated within the gland. This prevents a premature cascade of protease activation that would lead to pancreatitis.

Difficulty: Medium Question 38 of 40

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