Characterization of Enzyme Activity in Pineapple

Abstract

Bromelain is an enzyme or group of enzymes found in the fruit and stem of pineapples, Ananas comosus. Bromelain extract contains a mixture of proteases and several other substances in smaller quantities. Bromelain is currently produced and sold as a dietary aid and as a relief for arthritis, but this group of chemicals is believed to have much more potential. Many research studies suggest that enzymes found in pineapples and other fruits have medicinal uses. This research is focused on the extraction and characterization of active enzymes from pineapple. After extraction of proteins from pineapple juice, we used SDS-PAGE analysis to demonstrate the proteolytic activity of these enzymes.