Why do the digestive enzymes produced by the acinar cells remain inactive until they reach the duodenum

The digestive enzymes produced by the acinar cells of the pancreas are stored and released in an inactive form known as zymogens. This is a protective mechanism for the body. If these enzymes were active when they were produced, they could damage the pancreas and other tissues they come into contact with, leading to conditions such as pancreatitis.

The inactive enzymes travel through the pancreatic duct into the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine. Here, they come into contact with a molecule called enterokinase, which is secreted by the cells lining the duodenum. Enterokinase acts as a catalyst to activate the pancreatic enzymes, including trypsinogen to trypsin.

Once activated, trypsin can then activate other digestive enzymes, allowing them to break down food in the small intestine. This process ensures that the digestive enzymes only become active when they reach the digestive tract, where they are needed, and cannot cause damage to other parts of the body.