Carbohydrase Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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carbohydrase
[หkษหr.bษสหhaษช.dreษชz ]
Definition
biochemical enzyme
Carbohydrases are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of carbohydrates into simple sugars. They play a critical role in the digestion of carbohydrate-rich foods and are present in various organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms. These enzymes can be classified based on their substrate specificity and mode of action.
Synonyms
glycoside hydrolase, saccharase.
Examples of usage
- The carbohydrase enzyme helps break down starch in the digestive system.
- Scientists are studying carbohydrases for their potential in biofuel production.
- Fungi produce carbohydrases that assist in decomposing organic matter.
- Carbohydrases are important in the brewing industry to convert starches into fermentable sugars.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Carbohydrases are crucial for digestion, helping to convert complex carbohydrates into simple sugars like glucose.
- They are produced in various parts of the body, mainly in the saliva and pancreas, and play a key role in converting starches in food into energy.
Health
- Insufficient production of carbohydrases can lead to digestive issues, causing food intolerance or malabsorption.
- Certain diets, such as those low in carbohydrates, may affect the overall activity and necessity of these enzymes in the body.
Research
- Scientists are investigating the role of carbohydrases in the development of new treatments for diabetes by controlling blood sugar levels.
- The study of these enzymes has led to advances in food technology, including how we process and preserve food.
Fun Facts
- Certain microorganisms produce carbohydrases that can be used in various industrial applications, such as brewing and biofuel production.
- Carbohydrases are often used in household products like laundry detergents to help break down starch stains.
Origin of 'carbohydrase'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'carbo', derived from carbohydrates, and 'hydrolase', which is used in biochemistry to refer to enzymes that break down substances with water.
- The word 'carbohydrate' itself comes from the French word 'hydrate de carbone' meaning 'watered carbon'.
The term 'carbohydrase' is derived from the combination of 'carbohydrate' and the suffix '-ase', which is typically used to denote enzymes. 'Carbohydrate' itself comes from the French term 'hydrate de carbone,' meaning 'carbon hydrate,' which was adapted into English. The understanding of enzymes and their classifications began to evolve in the late 19th century, as scientists like Anselme Payen isolated diastase, one of the first carbohydrases known, from malted barley. This discovery paved the way for further research into enzymes that digest carbohydrates, leading to the modern classification and nomenclature we use today. Carbohydrases are crucial in various applications, including food processing, biotechnology, and medicine, highlighting their significance in both natural and industrial processes.