What is the primary function of carbonic anhydrase in the human body?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Catalyzing the conversion of carbon dioxide and water to bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. Carbonic anhydrase helps maintain acid-base balance in the body by catalyzing the reversible reaction between carbon dioxide and water to form bicarbonate and hydrogen ions. This process is crucial in regulating pH levels in various bodily fluids.
A: Breakdown of carbohydrates - This is not the primary function of carbonic anhydrase. Carbohydrate breakdown is primarily carried out by enzymes like amylase and sucrase.
B: Regulation of blood sugar levels - Carbonic anhydrase does not play a direct role in regulating blood sugar levels, which is mainly controlled by insulin and glucagon.
C: Facilitation of gas exchange in the lungs - While carbonic anhydrase indirectly affects gas exchange by regulating blood pH, its primary function is not to facilitate gas exchange in the lungs.