Role of Proteolytic Enzymes

Enzymes in general are proteins that facilitate chemical reactions in organisms. In fact, all tissues and bodily functions rely on enzymes to function. Proteolytic enzymes are metabolic enzymes and are responsible for regulating the protein function within the body. Some roles of proteolytic enzymes are well known, while others continue to be researched.

Definition

• Proteolytic enzymes, also known as proteases or proteinases, are enzymes that are produced in the pancreas and aid in the proteolysis (breakdown) of proteins in the digestive tract. There are several different enzymes, including trypsin, chymotrypsin and carboxypeptidase that are part of the proteolytic enzyme family.

Production

• All proteolytic enzymes begin as zymogens, which are inactive precursors of the active enzyme. The enzymes then become active through enzymatic cleavage, or limited proteolysis. For these pancreatic enzymes, this activation happens in the lumen of the digestive tract, where the active enzymes then perform their duties of aiding in digestion.

Sources

• Proteolytic enzymes are produced within the body, however deficiencies can occur. Proteolytic enzymes are also found in plant sources and, therefore, in some foods. The two food sources with the highest concentration are pineapple, which contains bromalain, and papayas, which contains papain.

Roles

• Proteolytic enzymes's most well-known and well-documented role is in the aid of digestion. Referred to as systemic proteolytic enzymes when they are absorbed by the body, they may also help reduce pain and inflammation. This function may be helpful in the treatment of osteoarthritis, pain caused by injury or recovery from surgery.
  There are also many studies of the role of proteolytic enzymes in the treatment of cancer. From helping to reduce the side effects of radiation to reacting with the metastatic cells, if these uses can be validated, the possibilities are numerous.
  The proponents of alternative medicine believe that proteolytic enzymes aid in food allergies. The rationale is that supplementing the diet with these enzymes increases the digestive tracts ability to digest the proteins fully, therefore eliminating anything that could cause an allergic reaction.
  Proteolytic enzymes may also have the ability to aid in autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and multiple sclerosis. The theory is that whole proteins leaking from food into the blood stream contribute to the severity of the disease. The addition of proteolytic enzymes helps to digest the proteins completely, therefore decreasing the leakage. However, this theory has not yet been sufficiently supported by research.

Supplementation

• Although the body produces proteolytic enzymes and some food sources offer additional enzymes, systemic proteolytic enzyme supplements are available at herbal and health food stores. Many choose to take supplements, especially to aid in the healing process from an injury or surgery. These enzymes are safe and no side effects have been reported; however, as with any medication, they should be taken as part of a well-planned recovery process that is overseen by a doctor.