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

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

Such is the agency of ptyalin in the saliva, of pepsin in the gastric juice, and of pancreatin or trypsin in the secretion of the pancreas, in the processes of digestion.

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Thus, while the mother feeds her child upon a diet which it is not yet prepared to deal with, she supplies from her own mouth the necessary moisture, warmth and ptyalin for making it digestible.

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This important function is due to an organic ingredient of the saliva called ptyalin.

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

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The saliva contains ptyalin, a ferment converting starch into sugar, and it also serves to moisten the food as it is ground up by the cheek teeth.

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