Question

A zymogen is an inactive substance which is made active with the help of different enzymes. Pepsinogen is secreted as a zymogen into the stomach to

• A. change the pH of the stomach fluids to aid digestion.
• B. digest complex carbohydrates.
• C. digest tough cellulose material.
• D. prevent digestion of the gastric glands.

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Pepsinogen is a proenzyme, which gets converted into enzyme pepsin when it comes in contact with hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Enzyme pepsin helps in the digestion of proteins. When pepsinogen is secreted in the stomach, it is in the form of zymogen. This is to prevent the digestion of the gastric glands by direct action of pepsinogen.