Lactase is an enzyme, which is a specific type of protein that acts as a catalyst in biochemical reactions. More precisely, lactase is a hydrolase, meaning it facilitates the hydrolysis of lactose, a disaccharide sugar found in milk. By breaking down lactose into its constituent monosaccharides, glucose and galactose, lactase allows for better digestion and absorption of sugars in the body.
Enzymes like lactase are crucial for numerous biological processes. They work by lowering the activation energy required for reactions to occur, enabling them to proceed much faster than they would without the enzyme. In the case of lactase, individuals who are lactose intolerant lack sufficient amounts of this enzyme, which leads to difficulties in digesting lactose, resulting in various gastrointestinal symptoms. Hence, understanding the role of lactase can provide insights into dietary needs and enzyme functions in our bodies.