Insulinase is an enzyme found in humans and animals that breaks down insulin. There are several synonyms for insulinase, including insulin-degrading enzyme, insulin-protease, and insulin-specific protease. Insulin-degrading enzyme is perhaps the most commonly used synonym for insulinase because it accurately reflects the enzyme's function as a protein that breaks down insulin. Other synonyms for insulinase include insulinase-like activity protein and insulin-glutathione S-transferase. While insulinase has primarily been studied in the context of diabetes and insulin metabolism, research has also suggested that it may play a role in the development of certain types of cancer.