beta-d-galactosidase


β-d-ga·lac·to·sid·ase

(gă-lak'tō-sīd'ās), An enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of lactose into d-glucose and d-galactose, as well as the hydrolysis of other β-d-galactosides; it also catalyzes galactotransferase reactions; a deficiency of β-d-galactosidase leads to problems in the intestinal digestion of lactose; used in the production of milk products for adults who lack the intestinal enzyme; a defect of one isozyme of β-d-galactosidase is associated with Morquio syndrome type B. Compare: lactase persistence, lactase restriction. Synonym(s): lactase