Endoenzyme

/ˌɛndoʊˈɛnzaɪm/ noun

Definition

An enzyme that works inside a cell or acts within a substrate, breaking bonds in the middle of molecules rather than at the ends.

Etymology

From Greek 'endo-' (within) plus 'enzyme' (from Greek 'en-' meaning in, and 'zyme' meaning ferment). Distinguished from 'exoenzyme' which acts outside cells.

Kelly Says

Your digestive enzymes are mostly exoenzymes working in your stomach, but endoenzymes inside your cells are constantly breaking down molecules for energy—you're like a tiny factory!

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