noun
- the breakdown of proteins into smaller polypeptides or amino acids by the action of enzymes
Usage: biochemistry
Examples
- Proteolysis is essential for digesting dietary proteins in the stomach.
- The enzyme pepsin catalyzes proteolysis in acidic conditions.
- Muscle wasting involves increased proteolysis of contractile proteins.
- Researchers studied proteolysis to understand protein turnover in cells.
- Proteolysis helps recycle amino acids for new protein synthesis.
- The rate of proteolysis increases during periods of fasting.