Functions of enzyme lipase

Lipases are a family of enzymes that break down triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol. Lipase function is to digest fats and lipids, helping to maintain correct gallbladder function. Lipase is the one such widely used and versatile enzyme. It is also found in many plants, animals, bacteria, and molds.

Lipases play an essential role in lipid transport and serve individual functions in several tissues, including hepatic lipase in the liver, hormone-sensitive lipases in the adipocytes, lipoprotein lipase in the endothelial cells, and pancreatic lipase in the small intestine.

Lipase is produced in the pancreas, mouth, and stomach. Most people produce enough pancreatic lipase, but people with cystic fibrosis, Crohn disease, and celiac disease may not have enough lipase to get the nutrition they need from food. Taking a lipase supplement can help ease digestion, especially after a high-fat meal.

It's normal to have a small amount of lipase in the blood. But if the cells of the pancreas are damaged, they will release larger amounts of lipase. So high levels of lipase in human blood may mean the person have pancreatitis, (an inflamed, swollen pancreas) or another type of pancreatic disease.
Functions of enzyme