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Hydrolysis

Meaning

Hydrolysis is a fundamental chemical reaction in human physiology and biochemistry where a compound is cleaved into two smaller compounds through the addition of a water molecule. This process is essential for the digestion and absorption of macronutrients, such as the breakdown of complex carbohydrates into monosaccharides, proteins into amino acids, and fats into fatty acids and glycerol. Within the hormonal context, hydrolysis is also critical for the inactivation and subsequent elimination of certain steroid and peptide hormones, often involving conjugation with sulfate or glucuronic acid prior to cleavage. The rate of hydrolysis is typically accelerated by specific enzymes known as hydrolases.