Amylolytic is a word that describes the ability to break down starch. It is spelled with the letter "y" between the "l" and "t." The phonetic transcription of this word using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /ˌæmɪləˈlɪtɪk/. The "y" sound in the middle of the word is represented by the symbol /ə/ which is known as the schwa sound. The phonetic transcription of words like amylolytic helps in properly pronouncing difficult words.
Amylolytic is an adjective that refers to the ability to break down or digest starches or carbohydrates. It is derived from the word "amylase," which is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into simpler sugars. Thus, an amylolytic substance or organism possesses the capacity to produce or secrete amylase for the purpose of breaking down complex carbohydrates.
In the context of biology and biochemistry, the term amylolytic is often used to describe enzymes, microorganisms, or other biological agents with the capacity to degrade and metabolize starch. These amylolytic agents play a crucial role in various biological processes, including digestion, as they enable the breakdown of starch molecules into glucose and other simpler sugars that can be further utilized for energy production.
Amylolytic enzymes are widely utilized in industrial applications, such as in the production of sweeteners, ethanol, and other fermentation-based processes that require the conversion of starch into sugars. Additionally, the amylolytic activity of certain microorganisms is utilized in the manufacturing of food and beverage products, as well as in the production of baking ingredients and additives that enhance the texture and flavor of baked goods.
Overall, the term "amylolytic" describes the ability to break down starch into simpler sugars, often referring to biological agents or substances that possess this enzymatic capability in various applications.
Causing the conversion of starch into sugar.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "amylolytic" is derived from two primary components: "amyl-" and "-lytic".
The root "amyl-" is derived from the Greek word "amylon", meaning starch. It is also related to "amylon" in Latin, which has the same meaning.
The suffix "-lytic" is derived from the Greek word "lutikos", meaning pertaining to loosening or dissolving. It is also related to "lysis" in Greek and Latin, which refers to decomposition, dissolution, or loosening.
Therefore, combining "amyl-" and "-lytic" creates the term "amylolytic", which refers to something that has the ability to decompose or dissolve starch.