Brush border enzymes support digestion, absorption & immunity

Brush border enzymes are catalysts located on the microvilli of the small intestine in the brush border region.

This is the dense layer of microvilli, or small finger-like projections, on the surface of the intestine that expand the area of absorption.

These enzymes play essential roles in digesting food, nutrient absorption, and supporting immune function.

Brush border enzymes include

• Lactase, sucrase, maltase, peptidases, lipase, which complete the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins and fats

more specifically

• Lactase breaks down lactose (milk sugar) into glucose and galactose

• Sucrase digests sucrose (table sugar) into glucose and fructose

• Peptidases break down peptides into amino acids for absorption

These enzymes perform the last step of digestion, converting nutrients into their simplest forms, which can then be absorbed through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream supporting nutrient use, energy production, cellular repair and overall function

protecting & preventing ‘leaky gut’

But the brush border also acts as a protective barrier by producing antimicrobial proteins and enzymes that help limit the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses and fungi in the gut. This is essential in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome and preventing infections!

Brush border enzymes also help maintain gut wall integrity, preventing 'leaky gut' where the intestinal lining becomes permeable. A healthy brush border reduces the likelihood of toxins and nasty pathogens entering the bloodstream and triggering systemic inflammation or autoimmune responses

deficiency causes

When brush border enzymes are deficient eg due to coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, ageing, or gut infections, the body struggles to fully digest food. This can lead to symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhoea and nutrient deficiencies. Malabsorption issues can weaken the immune system and exacerbate gut inflammation, further impairing the integrity of the brush border