What is the pH optima for pepsin

Options

A. `~2`
B. `~4`
C. `~6`
D. `~8`

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Pepsin**: Pepsin is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the digestion of proteins. It is secreted by the gastric glands in the stomach.

2. **Source of Pepsin**: Pepsin is produced in an inactive form known as pepsinogen. This inactive form is secreted by the chief cells (also known as peptic cells) in the gastric glands.

3. **Activation of Pepsin**: Pepsinogen is converted into its active form, pepsin, by the action of hydrochloric acid (HCl), which is secreted by the parietal cells of the gastric glands.

4. **Role of pH**: The activation of pepsinogen into pepsin occurs optimally in an acidic environment. The presence of HCl in the stomach lowers the pH.

5. **Determining pH Optima**: The pH at which pepsin exhibits maximum activity is referred to as its pH optima. For pepsin, this optimal pH is approximately 2.

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the pH optima for pepsin is 2, which means that pepsin works best and is most active at this pH level.

### Final Answer:
The pH optima for pepsin is approximately 2.

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