Which enzyme is involved in fat digestion in the small intestine?

Lipase is the enzyme specifically responsible for the digestion of fats in the small intestine. It is produced mainly by the pancreas and is released into the small intestine where it catalyzes the hydrolysis of triglycerides, breaking them down into fatty acids and glycerol. This process is essential for the absorption of dietary fats through the intestinal lining into the bloodstream.

In contrast, amylase is the enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into simpler sugars, primarily in the mouth and small intestine. Pepsin is an enzyme that begins the digestion of proteins in the stomach, functioning in acidic conditions, and is not active in the small intestine. Proteases, while also involved in protein digestion, include a broad range of enzymes that act on proteins but do not specifically target fats. Thus, lipase is essential for fat digestion, making it the correct choice.