Aminopeptidase

Definition

Aminopeptidase is an enzyme found in the digestive system that breaks down proteins by removing amino acids from the N-terminal (the end) of peptides. This process is essential for the absorption of amino acids in the small intestine.

Related terms

Proteins:

Large molecules composed of one or more chains of amino acids, essential for all known forms of life, acting as building blocks for cells.

Amino acids: Organic compounds that combine to form proteins, serving as the basic unit of proteins and are vital for bodily functions.

Enzymes:

Biological molecules that significantly speed up the rate of virtually all of the chemical reactions that take place within cells