Stem bromelain

Stem bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme complex derived from the stem of the pineapple plant (*Ananas comosus*). It is a member of the bromelain family and consists primarily of thiol endopeptidases along with other enzymes such as phosphatases, glucosidase, peroxidases, cellulases, glycoproteins, carbohydrates, and various protease inhibitors[3][8]. Stem bromelain exhibits multiple pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory effects (by modulating prostaglandin biosynthesis), reversible inhibition of platelet aggregation, fibrinolytic activity (by promoting conversion of plasminogen to plasmin and degrading fibrin), and enhanced absorption of certain drugs such as antibiotics[3][5][6][8]. Its primary formal therapeutic use is as a topical agent for burn wound eschar debridement[3]. Other investigated uses include treatment for angina pectoris, bronchitis, sinusitis, surgical trauma recovery support, thrombophlebitis prevention or management, pyelonephritis adjunct therapy and anti-metastatic applications in cancer research[8]. Stem bromelain can be absorbed intact through the intestine when administered orally—an unusual property for a protein—which may contribute to its systemic effects[3][5].

Other names

SBMEC 3.4.22.32EC3.4.22.32EC-3.4.22.32bromelain (when referring specifically to the stem-derived enzyme)