Question

Which of the following functions is not performed by secretions from salivary glands?

• A. Control bacterial population in mouth
• B. Digestion of complex carbohydrates
• C. Lubrication of oral cavity
• D. Digestion of disaccharides

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Saliva is secreted into the mouth and contains electrolytes, enzymes (salivary amylase and lysozyme), and mucus.
Detailed Explanation:
- (1) Saliva contains lysozyme, which acts as an antibacterial agent.
- (2) Salivary amylase breaks down starch (complex carbohydrate) into maltose.
- (3) Mucus in saliva helps in lubricating and adhering the food particles into a bolus.
- (4) Incorrect. The digestion of disaccharides (like maltose, lactose, sucrose) occurs in the small intestine by the action of enzymes (disaccharidases) in the succus entericus. Amylase stops at the disaccharide stage.
Step 2: Final Answer:
Saliva does not digest disaccharides.