Endopeptidase

Endopeptidase is an enzyme that breaks peptide bonds from within polypeptides or proteins. They are also known as proteases or proteinases.

Function

Endopeptidases are involved in many biological processes, including digestion, blood clotting, and protein synthesis. They are essential for life, as they help to break down proteins in the diet into amino acids that can be used by the body.

Types

There are many types of endopeptidases, including:

• Trypsin - This enzyme is produced in the pancreas and released into the small intestine, where it breaks down proteins in the diet.
• Chymotrypsin - This is another enzyme produced in the pancreas and released into the small intestine. It works alongside trypsin to break down proteins.
• Pepsin - This enzyme is produced in the stomach and begins the process of protein digestion.
• Thrombin - This enzyme is involved in the process of blood clotting. It converts fibrinogen into fibrin, which forms the basis of a blood clot.

Clinical significance

Endopeptidases are involved in many diseases. For example, in cystic fibrosis, a mutation in the gene that codes for a specific endopeptidase can lead to the production of thick, sticky mucus in the lungs and other organs. In addition, some bacteria produce endopeptidases that can break down the proteins in the body's tissues, leading to disease.

See also

• Exopeptidase
• Protease
• Proteinase

References

Endopeptidase Resources
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