hyaluronidase Biochem.
(ˌhaɪəljʊˈrɒnɪdeɪz, -eɪs)
[f. hyaluronid- (f. hyaluronic a. + -ase.]
Any of the enzymes which catalyse the depolymerization of hyaluronic acid, thereby reducing its viscosity and rendering tissue containing it more permeable.
| 1940 Chain & Duthie in Brit. Jrnl. Exper. Path. XXI. 325 Hyaluronic acid is the substrate for the ‘mucolytic’ enzyme in spreading factor solution which accordingly is termed ‘hyaluronidase’. 1951 A. Grollman Pharmacol. & Therapeutics xxix. 652 To accelerate the rate of absorption from the skin and subcutaneous tissues, hyaluronidase may be added to the infusion. 1967 Martindale's Extra Pharmacopoeia (ed. 25) 886/1 The diffusion of local anaesthetics is accelerated by the addition of 1000 units of hyaluronidase to each 20 ml. of the anaesthetic solution. 1970 Ambrose & Easty Cell Biol. xii. 391 The sperm acrosome secretes enzymes (including hyaluronidase) which assist penetration [of the ovum]. |