Other names for peptidase (DPPIV)

Peptidase DPPIV
DPP4 Enzyme
Proline-Specific Endopeptidase

Synopsis of peptidase (DPPIV)

Peptidase, specifically dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV), is a serine protease enzyme that breaks down specific peptides in the body by removing dipeptides from the N-terminal end of proteins—particularly when proline or alanine is in the penultimate position. It plays a vital role in both digestion and immune regulation, and is produced in the small intestine, kidneys, and immune cells. In supplement form, DPP-IV enzymes are used to assist individuals who have difficulty digesting gluten (gliadin) and casein—proteins commonly found in wheat and dairy.

Medicinally, DPP-IV enzyme supplements are most often used to support individuals with gluten sensitivity, autism spectrum disorders, or digestive issues involving incomplete protein breakdown. While DPP-IV is not a replacement for a gluten-free diet in celiac disease, it may reduce the impact of accidental gluten exposure by breaking down immunogenic peptides before they trigger an inflammatory response. DPP-IV also helps reduce post-meal brain fog, gas, bloating, and behavioral changes sometimes seen in those with gluten or casein intolerance.

In the pharmaceutical world, DPP-IV inhibitors (not to be confused with enzyme supplements) are a class of drugs used in type 2 diabetes management. These drugs inhibit the breakdown of incretin hormones, helping to regulate blood sugar by increasing insulin secretion and decreasing glucagon levels. While this is a different mechanism from the supplemental enzyme’s role in digestion, it highlights DPP-IV’s broader metabolic importance.

Historical Use in Medicine
DPP-IV was identified and studied in the mid-20th century during advances in protein chemistry and immunology. Unlike many plant-based enzymes (such as bromelain or papain), DPP-IV has no known use in ancient herbal traditions because it is a highly specific, modern, purified enzyme discovered through biochemical research.

The application of DPP-IV supplements in natural health emerged in the early 2000s, particularly through autism research and gluten-sensitive populations. It became a focus in biomedical approaches to autism, where children with suspected “leaky gut” or caseomorphin/gluteomorphin sensitivity were observed to respond positively to DPP-IV enzyme support.

Peptidase (DPPIV) is used for these health conditions

Diabetes (Scientific)

peptidase (DPPIV) is used to support these body systems

Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)

Products containing peptidase (DPPIV)

Designs For Health Digestzymes™
Designs For Health Digestzymes™
Designs For Health Digestzymes™
Douglas Laboratories GI Digest
Vitabase Ultra Veggie Enzymes