Tag: bio-chemistry

The optimum pH for the enzymatic activity of salivary amylase ranges from 6 to 7. Above and below this range, the reaction rate reduces as enzymes get denaturated. The enzyme salivary amylase is most active at pH 6.8. 

An amylase is an enzyme that catalyses the hydrolysis of starch into sugars. Amylase is present in the saliva of humans and some other mammals, where it begins the chemical process of digestion. Bile juice is secreted by liver. Pepsin and trypsin are produced in small intestine. 

There are three major parts of salivary glands that secrete saliva with the digestive enzyme such as parotid, submandibular and sublingual glands. Normally secretion of saliva is constant, regardless of the presence of food in the mouth. The amount of saliva secreted in 24 hours usually amounts from 1 liter to 1.5 litres. 

• The sublingual gland is one of the three salivary glands present. They are located beneath the mucous membrane of the floor of the mouth. The other salivary glands are the parotid and the submandibular glands. 
• Brunner's glands are present in the duodenum of the small intestine and helps in the release of mucous and proteolytic enzymes. Lacrimal glands are exocrine glands that supply tears to the corner of the eye. 
• Adrenal glands are endocrine glands present above the kidneys that are involved in the production of a large number of different hormones. So, the correct answer is 'sublingual gland'.