Protease is an enzyme that helps break down proteins into smaller peptides or amino acids. This process is essential for digestion, as it allows the body to absorb nutrients from the food we eat. Proteases are found in various organisms, including humans, animals, and microorganisms. There are different types of proteases, classified based on their mechanisms and active sites. Some common examples include pepsin, which works in the stomach, and trypsin, which functions in the small intestine. These enzymes play crucial roles in various biological processes, including metabolism and cell signaling.