0 item(s)
View cart
You have no items in your shopping cart.
29
Jan
Plant Proteases and Protease-Related Enzymes
Deep dive into plant nitrogen metabolism and enzymatic nomenclature.
In non-scientific contexts, plant proteases are occasionally referred to as "plant pepsin." However, in professional biochemistry and plant biology, this term is inaccurate.
While they share functional similarities with animal gastric pepsin in protein processing, their biological origins, optimal conditions, and physiological roles are distinct.
Key Enzymes in Plant Nitrogen Metabolism
Plant proteases are essential for nitrogen turnover. Below are the primary enzymes involved in amino acid processing:
🧪 Asparaginase
A cornerstone of nitrogen recycling, supporting metabolic balance during growth.
- Function: Hydrolysis of asparagine derivatives.
- Optimal pH: ~8.0
- Activator: Activity enhanced by Cyanide.
🧪 Amide Hydrolases
Contributes to nitrogen turnover with high substrate specificity.
- Function: Hydrolysis of amino acid amides.
- Optimal pH: ~8.0
- Regulation: Distinct regulatory behavior from asparaginase.
Other Essential Proteases
| Enzyme Name | Biochemical Role |
|---|---|
| Arginase | Hydrolyzes arginine into ornithine and urea for nitrogen recycling. |
| Dipeptidase | Degrades dipeptides into free amino acids for nutrient utilization. |
Clarification: "Plant Protease" vs. "Pepsin"
Scientific literature strictly uses specific nomenclature (e.g., Arginase) rather than "plant pepsin." While animal pepsin operates in acidic gastric environments for digestion, plant proteases function at near-neutral or alkaline pH to regulate growth, defense, and homeostasis.
Biofargo team
