ptyalin

[ tahy-uh-lin ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. an enzyme in the saliva that converts starch into dextrin and maltose.

ptyalin

/ ˈtaɪəlɪn /

noun

1. biochem an amylase secreted in the saliva of man and other animals

ptyalin

/ tī′ə-lĭn /

1. An enzyme found in the saliva of humans and herbivorous animals that helps in the predigestion of starches. Ptyalin is a type of amylase.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ptyalin¹

1835–45; < Greek ptýal ( on ) spittle, saliva + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of ptyalin¹

C19: from Greek ptualon saliva, from ptuein to spit

Example Sentences

Ptyalin, -e, tī′a-lin, n. the nitrogenous essential principle of saliva.

From Project Gutenberg

The action of ptyalin, however, continues in the fundus of the stomach until stopped by the acid in the gastric juice.

From Project Gutenberg

Here a similar action is caused by an enzyme called ptyalin.

From Project Gutenberg

The diastase of the malt has the same action on starch as the ptyalin in the saliva.

From Project Gutenberg

Amylopsin, the starch-digesting enzym, appears to be very similar to ptyalin in its power to digest carbohydrates.

From Project Gutenberg