-ase
suffix
UK/-eɪs/US/-eɪs/
Used to form the names of enzymes, typically indicating the substrate or the reaction the enzyme catalyzes.
Example Sentences
Amylase is an enzyme that helps in breaking down starch into sugar.
Lipase enzymes are crucial for the digestion of dietary fats.
Protease breaks down proteins into amino acids for the body to use.
Cellulase is an enzyme that decomposes cellulose in plants.
Lactase is necessary for the digestion of lactose in milk.
The enzyme DNA polymerase is critical for DNA replication.
Kinase enzymes play essential roles in cellular signaling pathways.
Hydrolase enzymes are responsible for catalyzing the hydrolysis of chemical bonds in molecules.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
Suffix denoting enzymes, crucial biological catalysts.The suffix '-ase' is predominantly used in biochemistry to name enzymes, which are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in living organisms. For example, 'amylase' breaks down starch, 'lipase' breaks down fats, and 'polymerase' synthesizes DNA. The root word usually describes the substance the enzyme acts upon (e.g., 'lip-' for fats in 'lipase') or the type of reaction catalyzed. Understanding '-ase' is key to identifying and interpreting enzyme functions in biological and chemical contexts.
Alternatives
Alternatives are rare as '-ase' is standardized for enzymes. However, '-zyme' (e.g., 'enzyme') is a more general term for similar contexts.
Writing
In scientific writing, '-ase' is a precise and widely recognized suffix for enzymes. Use it when describing or discussing biochemical processes, ensuring accuracy in naming and context. For example, 'protease' is specific to enzymes breaking down proteins.
Casual Conversation
In casual contexts, '-ase' words like 'lactase' (the enzyme digesting lactose) may appear when discussing diet or health, such as lactose intolerance. Familiarity with common enzyme names helps in understanding these discussions.
Etymology
The suffix '-ase' originates from the Greek word 'diastasis,' meaning separation. It was first used in the 19th century with the discovery of diastase, an enzyme that breaks down starch. Since then, '-ase' has become the standard suffix for enzymes in biochemistry, reflecting their catalytic roles in biological processes.
