Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down a substance called hyaluronic acid in the body, making it easier for fluids to move through tissues.

Example

Doctors sometimes use hyaluronidase to help with the absorption of medications in the body.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of hyaluronidase?

Yeah, isn't it that enzyme that helps fluids move through tissues?

Exactly! It's interesting how it breaks down hyaluronic acid.

Right, and it can really change how our body absorbs things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hyaluronidase is formed from "hyaluronic" (from the Greek "hyalos", meaning glassy or clear, referring to hyaluronic acid) and "-idase" (a suffix used in biochemistry to denote enzymes that catalyze the breakdown of a substance). The word hyaluronidase refers to an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid, which is a clear, gel-like substance in the body.

Memory Tip

Think of 'glassy' ('hyalos') to remember that hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks down a clear substance in the body.

Visually Confused Words