Hydrolytic Enzymes

Definition

Hydrolytic enzymes are proteins that speed up biochemical reactions in which a molecule is broken down into smaller units by the addition of water molecules.

Related terms

Protease: An enzyme that breaks down proteins and peptides.

Lipase:

An enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown of fats to fatty acids and glycerol or other alcohols.

Amylase: An enzyme that converts starch and glycogen into simple sugars.