lactase

[ lak-teys, -teyz ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. an enzyme capable of hydrolyzing lactose into glucose and galactose.

lactase

/ ˈlækteɪs; -teɪz /

noun

1. any of a group of enzymes that hydrolyse lactose to glucose and galactose

lactase

/ lăk′tās′ /

1. An enzyme that is found in the small intestine, liver, and kidneys of mammals and catalyzes the breakdown of lactose into galactose and glucose.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lactase¹

First recorded in 1890–95; lact- + -ase

Word History and Origins

Origin of lactase¹

C20: from lacto- + -ase