What substance is produced by the pancreas to aid in protein digestion?

The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by producing various enzymes that help break down nutrients in the small intestine. Among these enzymes, proteases specifically target protein molecules, breaking them down into smaller peptides and amino acids. The primary proteases produced by the pancreas include trypsin, chymotrypsin, and carboxypeptidase. These enzymes are released into the small intestine in their inactive forms and are activated there to prevent the pancreas from digesting itself.

Bile is produced by the liver and is important for fat digestion, whereas amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates and is primarily produced in the saliva and the pancreas. Pepsin is an enzyme that also aids in protein digestion but is produced in the stomach and is activated in the acidic environment there. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the specific role of proteases from the pancreas in protein digestion, differentiating them from enzymes and substances involved in other types of nutrient breakdown.