has been identified that the maggots produce proteolytic enzymes which take part in the debridement process. Applications of proteases auxiliary to antibiotic therapy Some pathogenic bacteria produce biofilms or exudates containing protein, which in some degree help the bacteria adhere to host tissue, or in some degree physically shield the bacteria or hinder the penetration of substances such as antibiotics administered with the intent that they contact the bacteria. Accordingly, proteolytic enzymes have been tried in conjunction with antibiotics. Thus, it has been reported that Serratia sp. E-15 protease (also known as serratiopeptidase; ) was effective for eradicating infection caused by biofilm-forming bacteria in an experimental animal model (which involved carrying out experimental limb surgery on rats, at the same time experimentally introducing Staphylococcus infection). The authors considered that "The antibiofilm property of the enzyme may enhance antibiotic efficacy in the treatment of staphylococcal infections." The same enzyme, when used concomitantly with an antibiotic, was also reported to increase antibiotic concentration at a target site. Applications of protease for enzyme therapy Protease is also capable of medical applications. It is one of the enzymes in Sollpura (Liprotamase), a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT). It assists in the break down of proteins into amino acids and polypeptides. Applications of protease based on anti-inflammatory activity Bromelain is a protease usually obtained from pineapple stem tissue, which has been medically used for its anti-inflammatory effects (see Bromelain - medical uses). Serratia E-15 protease (also known as serratiopeptidase or serrapeptidase) is another protease that has been proposed as an anti-inflammatory agent. Anti-inflammatory effects of this protease have been reported again more recently, and the material has come into some use in alternative or complementary medicine. On the other hand, it does not appear that there are positive clinical trial results for this material of a kind that would be needed to gain regulatory approval for controlled pharmaceutical uses. See also Nattokinase References Hydrolases Medical treatments