Definition

A type of enzyme that breaks down proteins by removing amino acids from the ends of peptide chains.

Example

Exopeptidases play a crucial role in protein digestion by releasing individual amino acids.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of exopeptidase?

Yeah, it's one of those enzymes that breaks down proteins, right?

Exactly! It helps to hydrolyze amino acids from the ends of peptide chains.

That’s really interesting; enzymes play such a crucial role in digestion!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Exopeptidase → It is formed from "exo-" (meaning outside) and "peptidase" (from "peptide" meaning a compound consisting of two or more amino acids linked in a chain, and "-ase" indicating an enzyme). The word refers to an enzyme that acts on the outside of peptide chains to break them down into smaller units.

Memory Tip

Think of an enzyme that works 'outside' ('exo-') of peptide chains to break them down, which helps you remember that 'exopeptidase' is involved in digesting proteins.

Visually Confused Words