Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down sugars, specifically sucrose, into simpler sugars like glucose and fructose.

Example

Sucrase is essential for the digestion of sucrose in the human body.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of sucrase?

No, what is it?

It's an enzyme that helps break down sugars, pretty interesting, right?

Definitely! I love learning about how our bodies work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sucrase is derived from 'sucrose' (from French 'sucrose', meaning sugar) and '-ase' (a suffix used in biochemistry to denote enzymes). The word 'sucrase' refers to an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of sucrose into glucose and fructose.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sucrose' as the sugar that 'sucrase' helps break down — the '-ase' tells you it's an enzyme that works on sugar.

Visually Confused Words