Which enzyme is responsible for breaking down fats?

Lipases are the enzymes specifically responsible for breaking down fats, also known as lipids. They catalyze the hydrolysis of ester bonds in triglycerides, leading to the production of glycerol and fatty acids. This biochemical reaction is crucial for the digestion and absorption of dietary fats in the body; without lipases, the body would be unable to effectively utilize the fats consumed in food.

Each type of enzyme has a distinct role in the body’s metabolic processes. For instance, amylase is involved in the breakdown of carbohydrates, primarily starches into sugars. Proteases, on the other hand, break down proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. Cellulases are enzymes that digest cellulose, a carbohydrate found in plant cell walls, thus are not involved in fat digestion. Understanding the specific functions of lipases emphasizes their critical role in both metabolic chemistry and nutrition.