Exopeptidases are enzymes that play a crucial role in the digestion of proteins. They work by breaking down peptides into smaller units, specifically by removing amino acids from the ends of peptide chains. This process helps convert proteins into free amino acids, which are essential for various bodily functions. These enzymes are found in various organisms, including humans, where they are primarily located in the small intestine. Exopeptidases can be classified into two main types: carboxypeptidases, which remove amino acids from the carboxyl end, and aminopeptidases, which act on the amino end.