Protease

Figure 1. The enzyme Protease.

Protease, or sometimes called peptidase or proteinase, is an enzyme that breaks down proteins into smaller polypeptides or single amino acids, spurring the formation of new protein compounds. Protease does this by cleaving the peptide bonds within proteins by hydrolysis.

Proteases are involved in many biological functions, including digestion of ingested proteins, protein catabolism, and cell signalling. Acid proteases secreted into the stomach and serine proteases present in the duodenum enable humans to digest protein in food. Proteases present in blood serum play an important role in blood-clotting, as well as lysis of the clots, and the correct action of the immune system.

Protease is synthesised in the pancreas and stomach of humans. The three main proteolytic enzymes produced naturally in the digestive system are pepsin, trypsin and chymotrypsin. Protease is also available in food sources such as:

• Papaya
• Pineapple
• Kiwifruit
• Ginger
• Asparagus
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Yogurt
• Kefir

As a dietary supplement, Proteases are available in capsules, gel caps, chewables, powders and tablets. Supplements often include a combination of proteolytic enzymes such as bromelain, papain, pancreatin, trypsin and chymotrypsin. Protease supplements are promoted to help with digestive health, absorption of dietary protein, decrease inflammation and swelling, promote wound healing, muscle soreness, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease.