Which enzyme is responsible for urea hydrolysis?

The enzyme responsible for urea hydrolysis is urease. Urease catalyzes the conversion of urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, a reaction that is important in various biological processes. This reaction occurs in the urea cycle and is crucial for the detoxification of ammonia in organisms, allowing for the safe excretion of nitrogenous waste.

Urease is particularly abundant in certain microorganisms and plants, and its activity is critical in soil chemistry as well as in clinical settings, such as in the diagnosis of urinary tract infections. The presence of urease can lead to the formation of alkaline conditions in urine, which can have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of various health conditions.

The other enzymes listed do not perform urea hydrolysis. Amylase is involved in starch breakdown, catalase decomposes hydrogen peroxide, and protease breaks down proteins. Each of these enzymes has its own specific substrate and reaction, which highlights the specialized functions of enzymes in biochemical processes.