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Peptidases

Meaning

A class of enzymes, also known as proteases or proteinases, that catalyze the hydrolysis of peptide bonds, thereby cleaving proteins and peptides into smaller fragments or individual amino acids. These ubiquitous enzymes are essential for a vast array of physiological processes, including digestion, protein turnover, blood clotting, and the activation or inactivation of peptide hormones. Their precise activity is crucial for regulating the half-life and bioavailability of signaling molecules.