Carboxypeptidase

Definition

Carboxypeptidase is an enzyme that hydrolyzes the carboxyl-terminal (C-terminal) end of proteins and peptides. It plays a crucial role in protein digestion by breaking down peptide bonds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carboxypeptidase is produced in the pancreas and secreted into the small intestine.
2. It specifically cleaves amino acids from the C-terminal end of peptides.
3. There are two main types: Carboxypeptidase A and B, each with different substrate specificities.
4. Optimal activity of carboxypeptidase occurs at a slightly basic pH found in the small intestine.
5. Zymogens, such as procarboxypeptidase, are inactive precursors activated by trypsin in the small intestine.

Review Questions

Related terms

Trypsin: An enzyme that activates other digestive enzymes, including converting procarboxypeptidase to its active form.

Pepsin:

A stomach enzyme that begins protein digestion by breaking down large polypeptides.

Aminopeptidase: An enzyme that removes amino acids from the N-terminal (amino end) of peptides.