dextranase: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
RareTechnical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “dextranase” mean?
An enzyme that breaks down dextran.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
An enzyme that breaks down dextran.
Any of a group of enzymes, typically produced by certain fungi and bacteria, that hydrolyze (split by reaction with water) dextran molecules, a type of polysaccharide composed of glucose units. It is used in industrial and medical applications to degrade dextran deposits.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
None; purely denotative.
Frequency
Equally rare and technical in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “dextranase” in a Sentence
Dextranase + verb (catalyzes, hydrolyzes, degrades) + dextran.Dextranase + is produced by + organism (e.g., Penicillium).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “dextranase” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The solution was dextranased to reduce viscosity.
American English
- They dextranased the sample to break down the polysaccharide.
adjective
British English
- The dextranase treatment was successful.
American English
- We observed dextranase activity in the culture.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in discussions of enzyme production, biotech patents, or industrial cleaning solutions for sugar processing equipment.
Academic
Common in biochemistry, microbiology, and dental research papers on plaque control, where dextran is a component of biofilms.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard term in enzymatic specification sheets, laboratory protocols, and descriptions of microbial metabolism.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “dextranase”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “dextranase”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “dextranase”
- Misspelling as 'dextrinase' (a different enzyme).
- Incorrect pronunciation stress on 'tran' instead of the first syllable 'dex'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is used in the sugar industry to break down dextran that forms during processing, improving yield and equipment efficiency.
No, humans do not produce dextranase. It is produced by microorganisms like certain fungi and bacteria.
Amylase breaks down starch (composed of amylose/amylopectin), while dextranase specifically breaks down dextran, a polymer made of glucose but with different linkages.
As a purified enzyme used in controlled industrial or laboratory settings, it is generally considered safe. It is not a common allergen.
An enzyme that breaks down dextran.
Dextranase is usually technical/scientific in register.
Dextranase: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdɛkstrəneɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdɛkstrəneɪs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'DEXTRAN' (the sugar gum) + '-ASE' (enzyme ending). It's the 'dextran-eraser' enzyme.
Conceptual Metaphor
ENZYME AS A SCISSORS (It cuts the long dextran chain into smaller pieces).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of dextranase?