protein breakdown
nounUK /ˈprəʊ.tiːn ˈbreɪk.daʊn/
US /ˈproʊ.tiːn ˈbreɪk.daʊn/
The process of breaking big protein pieces into tiny parts your body can use.
Protein breakdown in the stomach turns food into small pieces your body can absorb.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The chemical splitting of protein molecules into smaller peptides or amino acids.
Scientists measured protein breakdown in the lab using special enzymes.
3. The loss of muscle protein that can happen when the body needs extra energy.
During long fasting, protein breakdown in muscles can increase.
4. The rotting of protein-rich foods by bacteria.
The spoiled meat showed protein breakdown and a bad smell.