Lipases - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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Lipases are enzymes that help break down fats in the body. They are important in the digestive system and are mainly produced in the pancreas, though they are also found in the stomach and saliva. When you eat foods that contain fats, lipases break them down into smaller molecules called fatty acids and glycerol, which your body can then use for energy or store for later. Understanding how lipases work is essential in GCSE Biology because they play a crucial role in how your body processes nutrients and maintains energy levels.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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