How Do You Spell ANNEXIN V?

1. Annexin V is a protein belonging to the annexin family, which is composed of calcium-dependent phospholipid-binding proteins. This protein is widely used as a biomarker in various biological and medical research applications. Annexin V is particularly valued for its ability to specifically bind to phosphatidylserine (PS), a phospholipid molecule usually located on the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane of healthy cells.

   The binding of annexin V to PS plays a crucial role in detecting and characterizing apoptotic cells, which are undergoing programmed cell death. During apoptosis, the redistribution of PS from the inner to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane allows annexin V to bind to PS in a calcium-dependent manner. This interaction can be detected using various methods, such as fluorescence or immunohistochemistry, allowing researchers to identify and quantify apoptotic cells.

   Furthermore, annexin V has been widely employed in diverse experimental techniques and clinical assays. Its exceptional affinity for PS has been utilized for the isolation and purification of membrane fragments containing exposed PS or the separation of apoptotic cells from healthy ones. Additionally, annexin V conjugated with biotin, fluorescent dyes, or radioactive labels has been utilized as a probe to visualize apoptotic cells in flow cytometry, microscopy, and in vivo imaging.

   Overall, annexin V serves as an essential tool in the study of apoptosis and related fields, contributing to a better understanding of cellular processes and disease mechanisms.

Common Misspellings for ANNEXIN V

The word "Annexin V" is derived from the term "annexin" and the Roman numeral "V".

The term "annexin" comes from the Latin word "annexus", which means "to connect" or "to bind". It was first coined to describe a group of calcium-dependent proteins that have an affinity for binding phospholipids in a cellular context. These proteins were discovered due to their ability to bind and connect (annex) to cell membranes.

The Roman numeral "V" represents the fifth member of the annexin protein family. Annexin I, II, III, and IV were discovered prior to Annexin V. The numbering system is used to distinguish members of this protein family. So, Annexin V is the fifth member of the annexin family discovered and characterized.