MCQ Detailed View

Proteins are complex biological macromolecules made of long chains of amino acids. During the process of digestion, proteins are broken down into their simplest units, which are amino acids. This breakdown takes place in the stomach and small intestine with the help of enzymes. Pepsin, produced in the stomach, is one of the first enzymes that acts on proteins. Later, enzymes from the pancreas, such as trypsin and chymotrypsin, further break down proteins into smaller peptides. Finally, enzymes called peptidases act on these peptides to release free amino acids.

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. Once absorbed into the bloodstream, they are transported to different cells of the body where they are used to synthesize new proteins. These proteins are essential for growth, repair of tissues, enzyme production, hormone regulation, and immune system functions.

The other options in the question are important nutrients but do not produce amino acids upon digestion. Carbohydrates break down into simple sugars such as glucose, which are the body’s main source of energy. Fats are digested into glycerol and fatty acids, which are used for energy storage, insulation, and hormone production. Vitamins are organic compounds required in small amounts for proper metabolism, but they are not digested into smaller molecules; they are absorbed directly in their natural form.

Therefore, amino acids are the direct product of protein digestion only. This concept is fundamental in organic chemistry and biochemistry because it explains how large biomolecules are reduced to smaller units that can be absorbed and utilized by the human body. Understanding the breakdown of proteins into amino acids is essential for learning about metabolism, nutrition, and the chemistry of life processes.