Definition

A type of enzyme found in egg whites, tears, and saliva that can break down the cell walls of some bacteria, helping to protect the body from infections.

Example

Lysozyme is important for our immune system as it helps to kill harmful bacteria in our body fluids.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of lysozyme?

Yeah, I think it's found in egg whites and tears, right?

Exactly! It helps fight off bacteria naturally.

That's pretty cool! I had no idea our bodies had something like lysozyme.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lysozyme is formed from "lyso-" (from Greek "lysis", meaning to break down) and "zyme" (from Greek "zyme", meaning leaven or ferment). The word refers to an enzyme that breaks down certain substances, particularly in bacterial cell walls.

Memory Tip

Think of 'breaking down' ('lyso-') substances with an 'enzyme' ('zyme') — that's what lysozyme does.

Visually Confused Words