Digestion of disaccharides occur at
**Core Concept**
Digestion of disaccharides is a critical step in carbohydrate metabolism, where larger sugar molecules are broken down into simple monosaccharides that can be absorbed and utilized by the body. This process involves enzymes that catalyze the cleavage of glycosidic bonds between sugar molecules.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves the action of specific enzymes, such as sucrase, lactase, and maltase, which are located in the brush border membrane of the small intestinal epithelial cells. These enzymes catalyze the hydrolysis of disaccharides like sucrose, lactose, and maltose into their respective monosaccharides, glucose and galactose. This process is essential for the proper absorption of these sugars and their subsequent utilization by the body.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the correct location for the digestion of disaccharides is the small intestine, not the stomach.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the pancreas does produce digestive enzymes, but it is not the primary site for the digestion of disaccharides.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the liver is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, but it is not the primary site for the digestion of disaccharides.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that lactase deficiency is a common cause of lactose intolerance, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming lactose-containing products.
**Correct Answer: C. Small intestine.