Question

Which one of the following enzymes is involved in proteolysis of casein in cheese during aging?

• A. Myrosinase
• B. Alliinases
• C. Cathepsin
• D. Plasmin

Hint:

Plasmin is a key enzyme involved in the breakdown of casein in cheese during aging, contributing to its texture and flavor.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

During the aging of cheese, casein undergoes proteolysis, which is the breakdown of proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. One of the enzymes involved in this process is plasmin. Plasmin is a serine protease that plays a key role in the breakdown of casein in cheese during aging.

Step 1: Role of Plasmin
Plasmin is known to cleave casein molecules, which are the primary proteins in cheese, into smaller peptides. This breakdown contributes to the development of texture and flavor in the cheese.

Step 2: Other Options
- Myrosinase is involved in the breakdown of glucosinolates, not in casein proteolysis.
- Alliinases are involved in the breakdown of sulfur-containing compounds in garlic, not in cheese aging.
- Cathepsin is a protease found in animals, but plasmin is more specifically associated with cheese aging.

Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{(D) Plasmin}} \]