Hydrolysed

Detailed article on hydrolysed substances in medical and biochemical contexts

Introduction

Hydrolysed refers to a substance that has undergone the process of hydrolysis, a chemical reaction involving the breaking of bonds in molecules using water. This process is fundamental in both biological and industrial contexts, playing a crucial role in digestion, metabolism, and the production of various consumer goods.

Chemical Process of Hydrolysis

Hydrolysis involves the cleavage of chemical bonds by the addition of water. The general formula for hydrolysis is:

AB + H₂O → AH + BOH

where AB is the compound being hydrolysed, and AH and BOH are the products of the reaction. This process can occur under acidic, basic, or neutral conditions, depending on the nature of the compound and the desired outcome.

Types of Hydrolysis

• Acidic Hydrolysis: Involves the use of an acid to catalyze the reaction. Common in the breakdown of esters and amides.
• Basic Hydrolysis: Also known as saponification, it involves a base to catalyze the reaction, often used in the production of soaps from fats.
• Enzymatic Hydrolysis: Utilizes enzymes to facilitate the breakdown of complex molecules, such as the digestion of proteins by proteases.

Biological Importance

In biological systems, hydrolysis is essential for the digestion and metabolism of nutrients. For example:

• Carbohydrates: Hydrolysed by enzymes like amylase into simpler sugars such as glucose.
• Proteins: Broken down into amino acids by proteolytic enzymes.
• Lipids: Hydrolysed into fatty acids and glycerol by lipases.

These processes are vital for the absorption and utilization of nutrients by living organisms.

Industrial Applications

Hydrolysis is widely used in various industries:

• Food Industry: Production of hydrolysed proteins for use in infant formulas and sports nutrition products.
• Pharmaceuticals: Synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients through controlled hydrolysis.
• Biotechnology: Enzymatic hydrolysis in the production of biofuels from biomass.

Health Implications

Hydrolysed proteins are often used in hypoallergenic formulas for individuals with food allergies, as the hydrolysis process reduces the allergenic potential of proteins. However, the degree of hydrolysis can affect the nutritional and functional properties of the proteins.

Also see

• Hydrolysis
• Enzyme
• Protein digestion
• Saponification
• Biomass conversion