Proteases of Antarctic krill--a new system for effective enzymatic debridement of necrotic ulcerations.

The Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) possesses an "over-dimensioned' digestive system, which is of vital importance for the survival of this euphaucean shrimp in the extreme marine environment. The isolated enzymes contain a well-balanced mixture of both endo- and exopeptidases, assuring fast and complete breakdown of proteinaceous material. These unique properties have now been shown to be extremely valuable for the effective removal of necrotic debris, fibrin or blood crusts in vitro. Therefore the krill enzymes should be considered as an important resource in the future management of necrotic wounds.