proteolytic

adjective

pro·​teo·​lyt·​ic ˌprō-tē-ə-ˈli-tik How to pronounce proteolytic (audio)
: of, relating to, or producing proteolysis
proteolytically adverb

Examples of proteolytic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Proteases, also known as proteolytic enzymes, are a large group of enzymes necessary for several important processes in the body, including protein digestion, cellular function, and blood-clotting.1 The body naturally produces proteases. Jillian Kubala, Health, 8 Aug. 2024 This unique blend features 10 different proteolytic enzymes that help break down proteins into their amino acid components, allowing for optimal absorption of nutrients for maximum benefits. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 27 June 2023 Pomegranate enzymes are safe, proteolytic enzymes that help gently break down and digest large proteins that have accumulated on the skin, while aloe vera acts as a hydrating and anti-inflammatory protective barrier to soothe itchiness and help to prevent water loss. The Salt Lake Tribune, 13 May 2022 Upon death, proteolytic enzymes are activated and attack the lobster’s internal organs. Mai Nguyen, Discover Magazine, 19 May 2015 The team developed a membrane that includes proteolytic enzymes that attach to the protein spikes and deactivates them. Gretchen Cuda Kroen, cleveland, 22 July 2022 In this formula, papain, the proteolytic enzyme sourced from raw papaya, is combined with bromelain, the same type of enzyme found in pineapple. The Salt Lake Tribune, 9 May 2022 Two proteolytic cleavage events release the fusion peptide, forming a membrane bridge between the virus and the cell. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 28 Jan. 2022 Subsequent studies report three drugs, boceprevir, narlaprevir, and telaprevir, inhibit NSP5 protease proteolytic activity and bind into its active site. William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 4 June 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'proteolytic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

proteo- + -lytic

First Known Use

1877, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of proteolytic was in 1877

Dictionary Entries Near proteolytic

Cite this Entry

“Proteolytic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/proteolytic. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Medical Definition

proteolytic

adjective
pro·​teo·​lyt·​ic ˌprōt-ē-ə-ˈlit-ik How to pronounce proteolytic (audio)
: of, relating to, or producing proteolysis
proteolytic enzymes
proteolytically adverb
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