which of the following best explains why ptyalin is able to break down starches, but not protein?
a) proteins are too large to he affected by enzymes.
b) proteins are able to easily denature enzymes.
c) enzymes are proteins and cannot break down other proteins
d) enzymes are specific to their substrates

ptyalin or salivary amylase is able to break down starches, but not protein as enzymes are specific to their substrates. Thus, option D is correct.

What are the function of ptyalin ?

Ptyalin or salivary amylase is a starch hydrolyzing enzyme secreted by the chambers of human salivary glands.

It is secreted in the mouth and hydrolyzes starch into maltose and isomaltose.

It also produce small amount of dextrins which is otherwise called as the limit dextrins.

About 30% of starch are digested in mouth region by the help of ptyalin.

To increase the production is to eat foods containing natural digestive enzymes, such as fresh fruits.

This enzyme can work in a room with a high pH but cannot work in stomach, due to high acidity level.

Thus, option D is correct.

Learn more about salivary amylase , here:

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