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Protease - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A protease is an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids. It plays a key role in digestion, cell signaling, and other biological processes.

protease

/ˈproʊtiˌeɪz/ /ˈprəʊtiˌeɪz/

Definition:

An enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids.

Synonyms:

proteinase, peptidase, endopeptidase

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

inhibitor, stabilizer

Common Collocations:

protease inhibitor, protease activity, protease digestion

Derivatives:

proteolytic, proteolysis

Usage Tips:

Use "protease" when discussing enzymes that degrade proteins in biological or industrial contexts.

Common Phrases:

protease cascade, protease cleavage, protease-mediated degradation

Etymology:

From Greek "protos" (first) + "-ase" (enzyme suffix), referring to protein-digesting enzymes.

Examples:

  • 1. Protease helps digest food by breaking down proteins in the stomach.
  • 2. Scientists study protease to understand its role in viral infections.
  • 3. Some detergents contain protease to remove protein-based stains effectively.
  • 4. Protease inhibitors are used in medications to treat certain diseases.

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