2025 ASCP Histotechnologist Complete Practice Test

The main function of hydrolases in enzyme reactions is to catalyze the breakdown of substrates through the addition of water, a process known as hydrolysis. Hydrolases specifically facilitate the cleavage of chemical bonds in molecules, which often involves the insertion of a water molecule to break down complex substrates into simpler products. This catalytic action is essential in various biological processes, including digestion, where hydrolases help decompose macromolecules such as proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates into their monomeric units.

The other options relate to different types of enzymatic reactions. The removal of water from substrates reflects dehydration reactions (not hydrolases), while oxidation and reduction involve other classes of enzymes altogether, such as oxidoreductases. Thus, understanding the role of hydrolases is key in the context of enzyme reactions and their importance in metabolic pathways.