elastase

noun

elas·​tase i-ˈla-ˌstās 

-ˌstāz

: an enzyme especially of pancreatic juice that digests elastin

Examples of elastase in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pancreatic elastase—technically fine—could be higher. — Cara Schacter, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Feb. 2025

Researchers haven’t identified any upper limit for normal elastase results. — Laura Dorwart, Verywell Health, 27 Sep. 2024

Inadequate amounts of elastase and other pancreatic enzymes allow fats and proteins to pass through the small intestine intact and unabsorbed. — New York Times, 14 Apr. 2022

More than 10 years ago, such disease links prompted some companies to begin to develop compounds that inhibit neutrophil elastase. — Mitch Leslie, Science | AAAS, 5 Mar. 2020

Hibiscus inhibits the production of elastase, which breaks down elastin—a critical protein to keeping your skin bouncy and fresh. — Braelyn Wood, Health.com, 12 Nov. 2019

Word History

Etymology

elastin + -ase

First Known Use

1949, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for elastase

• aerospace
• anatase
• anyplace
• commonplace
• cyberspace
• database
• diabase
• diastase
• dnase
• fireplace
• hyperspace
• interface

Medical Definition

elastase

noun

elas·​tase i-ˈlas-ˌtās, -ˌtāz 

: an enzyme especially of pancreatic juice that digests elastin