👉 An enzyme weapon, also known as an enzyme-based toxin or protease, is a type of biological weapon that utilizes enzymes to damage or kill target cells. These enzymes are typically produced by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria or fungi, and can be secreted into the environment or directly injected into host tissues. When these enzymes encounter their specific target, they bind to and cleave crucial proteins within the cell, disrupting essential cellular processes like metabolism, signaling pathways, and structural integrity. This enzymatic damage leads to cell death or dysfunction, effectively neutralizing the host's defenses and facilitating the pathogen's survival and spread. Examples include streptolysin and hemolysins, which target red blood cells and other host components respectively.
