Papainpapain, enzyme present in the leaves, latex, roots, and fruit of the papaya plant (Carica papaya) that catalyzes the breakdown of proteins by hydrolysis (addition of a water molecule).
Papain is used in biochemical research involving the analysis of proteins, in tenderizing meat, in clarifying beer, in removing hair from hides before tanning, and in enzyme-action cleansing agents for soft contact lenses. It is also used in toothpastes and cosmetics and in preparations of various remedies for indigestion, ulcers, fever, and swelling. A related enzyme also produced by papaya is chymopapain, which has different characteristics of mobility and solubility; it ... (100 of 235 words)