Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down cellulose, which is a substance found in the cell walls of plants.

Example

Cellulase is used in the production of biofuels to break down plant material.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of cellulase?

Yeah, I think it's an enzyme, right?

Exactly, it helps break down cellulose in plants.

That's pretty cool! I didn't know enzymes could do that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cellulase → It is formed from "cellula" (from Latin, meaning small room or cell) and "-ase" (a suffix used in biochemistry to denote enzymes). The word "cellulase" refers to an enzyme that breaks down cellulose, which is a component of plant cell walls.

Memory Tip

Think of 'cellula' meaning a small room or cell, and remember that 'cellulase' is an enzyme that works on breaking down the structure of plant cells.

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