A protease (also called a peptidase or proteinase) is an enzyme that catalyzes (increases reaction rate or "speeds up") proteolysis, breaking down proteins into smaller polypeptides or single amino acids, and spurring the formation of new protein products.

How does protease enzyme work?

Protease refers to a group of enzymes whose catalytic function is to hydrolyze peptide bonds of proteins. They are also called proteolytic enzymes or proteinases. ... For example, in the small intestine, proteases digest dietary proteins to allow absorption of amino acids.

What does the protease do?

Proteolytic enzymes (proteases) are enzymes that break down protein. These enzymes are made by animals, plants, fungi, and bacteria.