Carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes) are specialized proteins that facilitate the breakdown and modification of carbohydrates. They play a crucial role in various biological processes, including digestion and metabolism. CAZymes can be classified into different families based on their structure and function, such as glycoside hydrolases and glycosyltransferases. These enzymes are essential for organisms that rely on carbohydrates as a primary energy source. They help in the degradation of complex carbohydrates like starch and cellulose, making simpler sugars available for absorption. CAZymes are also important in industrial applications, such as food processing and biofuel production.