zymogen
/ˈzaɪmədʒən/
noun
- An inactive substance in the body that can be turned into an active enzyme when needed.
- The pancreas stores zymogens that become active digestive enzymes in the small intestine.
- When a zymogen is activated, it starts breaking down proteins in the stomach.
- Doctors measure zymogen levels to check if the pancreas is working properly.