nounIntermediate
Definition
Chemical reaction in which a peptide bond is broken by the addition of a water molecule (H₂O).

Detailed Explanation

Chemical reaction in which a peptide bond is broken by the addition of a water molecule (H₂O). One fragment receives the –OH and the other the –H, regenerating free amino and carboxyl groups. Hydrolysis is the reverse of condensation. In biology, proteases catalyze hydrolysis of specific peptide bonds during digestion, intracellular protein turnover, and blood clotting. Industrial hydrolysis is how collagen is converted first to gelatin and then to collagen peptides. Acid hydrolysis (6M HCl, 110°C, 24h) completely breaks all peptide bonds and is used in amino acid composition analysis.

Key Facts

  • Chemical reaction in which a peptide bond is broken by the addition of a water molecule (H₂O).
  • One fragment receives the –OH and the other the –H, regenerating free amino and carboxyl groups.
  • Hydrolysis is the reverse of condensation.
  • In biology, proteases catalyze hydrolysis of specific peptide bonds during digestion, intracellular protein turnover, and blood clotting.
  • Industrial hydrolysis is how collagen is converted first to gelatin and then to collagen peptides.
Related Terms Condensation Reaction Peptide Bond Protease Collagen Peptides

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