The decomposition of protein; primarily via the hydrolysis of peptide bonds, both enzymatically and nonenzymatically. [proteo- + G. lysis, dissolution]
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pro·te·ol·y·sis .prōt-ē-'äl-ə-səs n, pl -y·ses -.sēz the hydrolysis of proteins or peptides with formation of simpler and soluble products (as in digestion)
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n.
the process whereby complex protein molecules, obtained from the diet, are broken down by digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine into their constituent amino acids, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream. See endopeptidase, exopeptidase.
• proteolytic adj.
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pro·te·ol·y·sis (pro″te-olґĭ-sis) [protein + -lysis] the splitting of proteins by hydrolysis of the peptide bonds with formation of smaller polypeptides; the process may be catalyzed by proteolytic enzymes, by acids, or by bases.Medical dictionary. 2011.