enzymes that catalyse the hydrolysis of proteins. Usually several proteolytic enzymes are necessary for the complete breakdown of polypeptides to their amino acids.
Source:
PAC, 1992, 64, 143. 'Glossary for chemists of terms used in biotechnology (IUPAC Recommendations 1992)' on page 163 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199264010143)