Deoxyribonuclease

Definition

Deoxyribonuclease is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolytic cleavage of phosphodiester linkages in the DNA backbone, breaking down DNA molecules into smaller components. It plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of nucleic acids in the digestive system by facilitating the breakdown of ingested DNA from food.

Related terms

Nucleic acids: The biopolymers (DNA and RNA) that are essential for all known forms of life, serving as the blueprint for proteins.

Hydrolysis:

A chemical reaction where water is used to break down a compound; it's how deoxyribonuclease breaks down DNA.

Digestive enzymes:

Proteins that speed up the chemical reactions necessary for digesting food substances, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats