Pancreatic elastase

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Pancreatic elastase is an enzyme produced by the pancreas that plays a crucial role in the digestion of proteins. It is a type of serine protease and is specifically involved in breaking down elastin, a protein found in the connective tissue of animals.

Function

Pancreatic elastase is secreted by the pancreas in an inactive form known as proelastase. Once it reaches the small intestine, it is activated by the enzyme trypsin to become active elastase. The primary function of pancreatic elastase is to degrade elastin, which is a key component of the extracellular matrix in tissues such as the lungs, arteries, and skin.

Clinical Significance

Pancreatic elastase levels can be measured in stool samples to assess pancreatic function. Low levels of pancreatic elastase in the stool can indicate exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes. This can lead to malabsorption and various gastrointestinal symptoms.

Diagnostic Use

The measurement of fecal pancreatic elastase is a non-invasive test used to diagnose EPI. It is considered more reliable than other tests because elastase is stable during intestinal transit and its levels are not significantly affected by pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.

Related Conditions

Conditions associated with abnormal pancreatic elastase levels include:

• Chronic pancreatitis
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pancreatic cancer
• Diabetes mellitus

See Also

• Pancreas
• Digestive enzyme
• Serine protease
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
• Trypsin