Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down nucleotides into nucleosides and phosphoric acid by adding water.

Example

Nucleotidase plays a crucial role in the metabolism of nucleotides in the cell.

Conversation

Did you know that nucleotidase is an important enzyme in our bodies?

Really? I didn't know that; what does it do exactly?

It helps break down nucleotides into nucleosides and phosphoric acid.

That sounds fascinating! Enzymes are so crucial for our metabolism.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nucleotidase → It is formed from "nucleotide" (from Latin "nucleus", meaning kernel or core, and "-tide", a suffix used in biochemistry to denote a compound) and "-ase" (a suffix used in biochemistry to indicate an enzyme). The word refers to an enzyme that acts on nucleotides, breaking them down or modifying them.

Memory Tip

Think of 'nucleus' as the core part of a cell and remember that 'nucleotidase' is an enzyme that works on the core components of nucleotides.

Visually Confused Words