hyaluronidase Hear it!

hyaluronidase Definition

hya·lu·roni·dase (-rän′i dās′)

noun

an enzyme that inactivates hyaluronic acid by breaking down its polymeric structure, thus promoting the diffusion of substances through tissues: found in sperm cells, certain venoms and bacteria, etc.

Etymology: < hyaluronic acid + -id(e) + -ase

hyaluronidase Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • produce: Streptococcus produce the enzyme hyaluronidase which hydrolyses hyaluronic acid, a polysaccharide component responsible for binding cells together.

Noun used with modifier

  • enzyme: This is the reason why some subcutaneous injections and drugs in creams or ointments include a small amount of the enzyme hyaluronidase.