Inflammacidin (phytozymes)

Inflammacidin

Proteolytic Enzymes – “The Unsung Heroes”  Enzymes are essential in catalyzing thousands of biochemical reactions critical to the metabolic processes of almost every cell in your body in order to keep you alive and thriving. Enzymes either catalyze the breakage of a larger molecule into smaller molecules or help bind two molecules together to produce a new molecule. While enzymes are essential for many critical processes in your body, proteolytic enzymes are scientifically known for their ability to digest dietary proteins. Proteolytic enzymes are commonly found in fruits such as papaya, pineapple, fig, and kiwi.In general, proteases are classified according to their catalytic site (i.e. cysteine proteases, serine proteases, aspartic proteases, and metalloproteases). Proteases are present in all living organisms involved in metabolism and also assist in the proper dismantling of cell structures during apoptosis (cell death). In plants, proteases protect themselves from fungal and bacterial invaders by specifically catalyzing the hydrolysis of peptide bonds between amino acid residues in a polypeptide chain of the offending invader.  Specific proteases act on specific amino acids and cut the peptide bond in a specific location. Cysteine Proteases (CPs) contain a Cys-His-Asp triad active site. Their main physiological role is the metabolic degradation of peptides and proteins. For this reason, they are commonly used as meat tenderizers. CPs are involved in MHC Class II antigen presentation immune functions, apoptosis, pro-hormone processing, and extracellular matrix remodeling that is important to bone development. Recent research clinically suggests these powerful systemic enzymes are the “unsung heroes” working throughout the entire body to promote healthy blood flow and platelet function. In addition, they support a healthy inflammatory response and overall joint health.