papain

papain definition - medical

pa·pa·in (pə-pāˈĭn, -pīˈĭn) or pa·pa·in·ase (-ə-nāsˌ, -nāzˌ)

noun
An enzyme, or a crude extract containing it, that digests protein, catalyzes the hydrolysis or transfer of esters, amides, or other chemical groups containing sulfur, and is used as a digestive aid.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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