Proteolytic Enzymes - Endogenous

Also known as:  Proteases;  Proteinases;  Peptidases

Endogenous Proteolytic Enzymes are a group of Digestive Enzymes and Enzymes present in cell structures (complexes) named Proteasomes.

Digestive System

 Specific Endogenous Proteolytic Enzymes are essential for the digestion of Dietary Proteins.

 Proteolytic Enzymes help to prevent the proliferation of Intestinal Parasites and Microorganisms - Detrimental within the Small Intestine.

Immune System

 Proteolytic Enzymes appear to prevent some forms of Cancer.

Enzyme Inhibitors

 Although Protease Inhibitors' primary function is to inhibit the digestive function of Proteolytic Enzymes, especially Trypsin, recent evidence indicates that Protease Inhibitors may actually stimulate the production of greater quantities of Proteolytic Enzymes and may not inhibit the Immune System functions associated with Proteolytic Enzymes.