Lactose intolerance results from a dysfunctioning enzyme 1 N

Lactose intolerance results from a dysfunctioning enzyme.

1. Name the enzyme and the class of enzyme that leads to lactose intolerance.

Solution

Lactose intolerance results from dysfunctioning of Lactase enzyme and it belongs to -galactosidase enzyme family. Lactase is present in the brush border of the small intestine and breaks down lactose sugar present in the milk. Lactose breaks down to glucose and galactose which gets absorbed into bloodstream. While some individuals are deficient in lactase, so lactose is not broken into glucose and galactose, instead moves into colon thus, causing lactose intolerance.