1. inactive enzyme precursors that are converted to active enzymes when needed
Usage: biochemistry; plural form

Examples

• Digestive proenzymes are stored in the pancreas until they are activated in the small intestine.
• The conversion of proenzymes to active enzymes helps regulate metabolic processes.
• Many proenzymes require specific conditions or cofactors for activation.
• Blood clotting involves a cascade of proenzymes being converted to active forms.
• Pepsinogen is one of the most well-known proenzymes in human digestion.
• Scientists study proenzymes to understand how enzyme activity is controlled in cells.