One of the consequences of oxidative stress is the formation of oxidized proteins.  Oxidized proteins often loose their function (become inactive), and undergo unfolding or conformational change of their structure which enhances their susceptibility to proteolysis.  For instance, oxidized proteins in blood or extracellular fluid, include hormones, immune system proteins, transport proteins, and other proteins needed at various cellular locations.

As these oxidized proteins loose their biological function, they may not carry out the cellular tasks and biochemical reactions they are meant to perform.  For instance, an oxidized hormone may not be able to attach to its receptor on the cell surface; an oxidized enzyme may not perform its activity; an oxidized antibody molecule will not bind to its antigen.

Oxidative reactions occur in a cascade manner.  Therefore, oxidation of one protein may lead to further oxidation reactions within the same molecule and/or other molecules, which amplify the damaging effect.  Thus, any oxidation of a protein if not corrected may result in impairment of biochemical functions of vital importance to the cellular viability.  In order to avoid the cascade effect, oxidized proteins may be reduced by an antioxidant or removed by proteolysis.  Several studies have indicated that oral proteases bound to the a₂-macroglobulin hydrolyze immune complexes, proteinaceous debris, damaged proteins, and acute phase plasma proteins in the blood stream.  It is suggested that oral proteases may help hydrolyze and remove extracellular proteins damaged by free radicals which are especially susceptible to proteolysis, as mentioned above.

INDICATIONS:

Tzyme^TM is the trademark of a proprietary blend of highly  active, functional enzymes. These enzymes are pH balanced and GI tract stable. This blend is formulated to enhance the digestive process and impart systemic benefits.

Tzyme^TM Protease Blend - This proprietary blend of highly active proteolytic enzymes has a wide range of pH stability. Proteolytic enzymes taken orally under certain conditions have been shown to be absorbed in substantial quantities into the blood.  Once in the blood circulation, the enzymes in this blend bind to serum proteins, especially alpha 2-macroglobulin (a₂M), and impart immunomodulatory benefits.  One of the best-established functions served by the oral proteases in Tzyme^TM blend is in the maintenance of normal blood flow.  This is accomplished by breaking down blood clots (fibrinolysis) and platelet aggregation within blood vessels and breaking down excess extra-vascular plasma proteins as in edema. In addition to these benefits, the proteases in Tzyme^TM blends help to hydrolyze oxidized proteins, thus eliminating the free radical damage process.

Tzyme^TM AntiOx Blend - The highly active antioxidants in this blend ensure the reduction of oxidized molecules in the system. The reducing enzymes in this formulation include catalase, glutathione, SOD, as well as various sources of bioflavonoids, vitamin C, carotenoids, lipoic acid and other potent antioxidants.  The specific ingredients in this blend can help prevent and correct free radicals within the aqueous and lipophilic environments.