Aldolase

/ˈɔldəleɪs/ noun

Definition

An enzyme that catalyzes the aldol condensation reaction, splitting or joining molecules by breaking or forming carbon-carbon bonds.

Etymology

From aldol (a compound with aldehyde and alcohol groups) plus -ase (the suffix for enzymes). Named in the early 20th century when this enzyme's function was discovered.

Kelly Says

Aldolase is so central to life that it's found in every organism—it's a key enzyme in glycolysis (how cells break down glucose for energy), making it one of the most important proteins in your body that you've never heard of.

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