amylase

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈæmɪleɪs/

Definition

A digestive enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into sugars.

Examples

• The pancreas secretes amylase to help the body process complex carbohydrates.

• Human saliva contains a specific form of amylase that initiates digestion in the mouth.

• Industrial food processors often add fungal amylase to improve the texture and shelf life of baked goods.

Synonyms of amylase

Words with a similar meaning to amylase:

• enzyme
• catalyst
• protein
• biocatalyst

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