Papain

• Papain is a proteolytic enzyme from papaya latex used for protein digestion and wound healing.
• Papain aids in digestion, tenderizes meat, and is applied in pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

General Information of Papain

• Synonyms: Papaya proteinase I
• Biological Source:
  • Derived from the latex of unripe fruits of Carica papaya.
• Family: Caricaceae
• Geographical Source:
  • Grown in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, Nigeria, Brazil.

Macroscopical Characters of Papain

• Color: White to light yellow powder.
• Texture: Fine, dry powder or crystalline.
• Taste: Slightly bitter.
• Odor: Mild characteristic odor.

Chemical Constituents of Papain

• Proteolytic enzyme: Papain (Cysteine protease).
• Other components: Chymopapain, Carbohydrates, Calcium, Sulfur-containing amino acids.
• Molecular weight: ~23,400 Da

Mechanism of Action

Papain breaks down proteins into peptides and amino acids by cleaving peptide bonds. It works over a broad pH range (3-9), making it highly effective.

Preparation

1. Collection of Latex:
   • Unripe papaya fruits are cut, and latex is collected in clean containers.
2. Purification:
   • Latex is dried in sunlight or by spray drying.
3. Grinding & Packaging:
   • The dried product is finely powdered and stored.

Evaluation

• Solubility: Soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol.
• Purity Tests:
  • Gelatin Digestion Test: Confirms proteolytic activity.
  • Casein Digestion Test: Measures enzyme efficiency.

Preservation & Storage

• Stored in airtight containers at low temperatures (4°C to -20°C) to maintain activity.

Therapeutic Uses

• Digestive aid (used in enzyme supplements for indigestion, gas, bloating).
• Meat tenderizer (softens meat by breaking down muscle proteins).
• Wound debridement (removes dead tissue from wounds).
• Anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling and pain in trauma, surgery).

Commercial Utility

• Used in pharmaceuticals (tablets, creams, enzyme therapy).
• Used in food industry (meat tenderizers, beer clarification).
• Used in cosmetics (exfoliating creams, skin-care products).

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