trypsin

[ trip-sin ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. a proteolytic enzyme of the pancreatic juice, capable of converting proteins into peptone.

trypsin

/ ˈtrɪpsɪn; ˈtrɪptɪk /

noun

1. an enzyme occurring in pancreatic juice: it catalyses the hydrolysis of proteins to peptides and is secreted from the pancreas in the form of trypsinogen See also chymotrypsin

trypsin

/ trĭp′sĭn /

1. An enzyme that aids digestion by breaking down proteins. It is produced by the pancreas and secreted into the small intestine, where it catalyzes the cleavage of peptide bonds connecting arginine or lysine to other amino acids.

Derived Forms

• tryptic, adjective

Other Words From

• tryp·tic [trip, -tik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of trypsin¹

1875–80; irregular < Greek trîps ( is ) friction ( trī́b ( ein ) to rub + -sis -sis ) + -in ²; so called because first obtained by rubbing the pancreas

Word History and Origins

Origin of trypsin¹

C19 tryp- , from Greek tripsis a rubbing, from tribein to rub + -in ; referring to the fact that it was originally produced by rubbing the pancreas with glycerine

Example Sentences

The motor uses the digestive enzyme trypsin to cut the peptides and convert them into the energy it needs to propel itself.

From Science Daily

Indonesia’s highest Muslim clerical council, the Indonesia Ulema Council, said on its website Friday that the vaccine is “haram” because the manufacturing process uses “trypsin from the pork pancreas.”

From Reuters

Strict trypsin specificity was required, allowing for up to two missed cleavages.

From Nature

Some studies point to α-amylase trypsin inhibitors, or say that people may be benefiting from reduced consumption of insoluble fibre, which is common in whole-grain breads and other cereal products.

From Nature

If the prodrugs look promising in the clinic, the company will add a second compound that blocks trypsin activity.

From Nature