Which carbohydrate splitting enzyme initiates the chemical process of digestion in the oral cavity ?

Options

A. Lysozyme
B. Salivary amylase
C. Pepsin
D. Rennin

Answer

To answer the question "Which carbohydrate splitting enzyme initiates the chemical process of digestion in the oral cavity?", we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Enzymes in the Options**: The options provided are lysozyme, salivary amylase, pepsin, and rennin. We need to analyze each enzyme to determine which one is responsible for carbohydrate digestion in the oral cavity.

2. **Understand the Role of Saliva**: The oral cavity is where saliva is secreted, which contains various enzymes that aid in digestion. We need to focus on the enzymes present in saliva that help in carbohydrate digestion.

3. **Evaluate Lysozyme**:
- Lysozyme is present in saliva.
- Its primary function is to have antimicrobial properties, specifically breaking down the cell walls of bacteria.
- It does not play a role in carbohydrate digestion.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect option.

4. **Evaluate Salivary Amylase**:
- Salivary amylase is indeed present in saliva.
- Its function is to catalyze the breakdown of starch into maltose, which is a simpler carbohydrate.
- This enzyme is specifically known for initiating carbohydrate digestion in the oral cavity.
- **Conclusion**: Correct option.

5. **Evaluate Pepsin**:
- Pepsin is not found in saliva; it is an enzyme that operates in the stomach.
- Its primary role is to break down proteins, not carbohydrates.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect option.

6. **Evaluate Rennin**:
- Rennin is not present in humans; it is found in calves and some ruminants.
- Its function is related to milk coagulation, not carbohydrate digestion.
- **Conclusion**: Incorrect option.

7. **Final Answer**: Based on the analysis, the carbohydrate-splitting enzyme that initiates the chemical process of digestion in the oral cavity is **salivary amylase**.