Humans cannot digest cellulose due to the absence of which of the following enzymes?

Cellulase

The correct answer is option 4. Cellulase.

Cellulose is a complex carbohydrate found in the cell walls of plants. It is made up of long chains of glucose molecules linked together. While the human digestive system produces enzymes like amylase to break down other types of carbohydrates such as starch, it lacks the specific enzyme needed to break down cellulose efficiently, which is cellulase.

Cellulase is an enzyme produced by certain microorganisms, fungi, and bacteria. These organisms possess the necessary machinery to produce cellulase, allowing them to break down cellulose into its constituent glucose molecules, which can then be used as a source of energy.

In the human digestive system, cellulose passes through without being broken down by enzymes. However, it still serves an important function in the diet by providing dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel health. While humans cannot digest cellulose themselves, the fiber it provides is beneficial for overall digestive health.