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Esterase Enzymes

Meaning

Esterase enzymes are a broad class of hydrolase enzymes that catalyze the cleavage of ester bonds, a reaction that involves the addition of water to break the chemical linkage. In human physiology, these enzymes are crucial for the metabolism, activation, and deactivation of various lipids, pharmaceuticals, and many steroid hormone precursors or metabolites. Their action is fundamental to detoxification processes and the bioavailability of certain compounds within the body. Genetic variations in esterase activity can significantly influence an individual’s response to hormone therapies.