Lipases

Lipases, also known as triacylglycerol acyl hydrolases, are a subclass of esterases that catalyze the hydrolysis of triglycerides by acting on carboxylic ester bonds. They break down triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol. A variety of lipases have been identified. Hepatic lipase in the liver is responsible for degrading the triglycerides that remain in intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL). Pancreatic lipase is found within the small intestine and degrades dietary triglycerides. Hormone-sensitive lipase can be found within fat tissue and is responsible for degrading the triglycerides that are stored within adipocytes. Lipoprotein lipase is found on the vascular endothelial surface and degrades triglycerides that circulate from chylomicrons and VLDLs. Elevated blood lipases could indicate conditions such as pancreatitis. Lipases are also used in pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT). Visit the supplier page for more product information, including details on enzyme activity.