PROTEOSOME Meaning and
Definition
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A proteasome refers to a complex cylindrical-shaped protein structure that carries out the process of protein degradation within cells. It acts as a key constituent of the cellular protein quality control system. The term "proteasome" is derived from the words 'protein' and 'some' (denoting a body or entity), which accurately describes its primary function of breaking down or degrading proteins.
The proteasome consists of several subunits arranged in a precise manner, forming a hollow cylinder-like structure. These subunits work collaboratively to recognize, envelop, and degrade targeted proteins. When proteins are marked for degradation, they are tagged with a small protein called ubiquitin. The ubiquitin-tagged proteins are then recognized and engulfed by the proteasome, which begins the degradation process.
The degradation of proteins by the proteasome is a critical mechanism in cellular processes such as cell cycle regulation, immune response, DNA repair, and removal of damaged or misfolded proteins. Additionally, it aids in the elimination of abnormal or harmful proteins, preventing the accumulation of misfolded or disease-causing proteins within cells.
Understanding the proteasome's structure and function has immense implications in various areas of research, particularly in pharmacology and drug design. Several medicines have been developed that target the proteasome, such as proteasome inhibitors, which interfere with its activity and have proven effective in treating certain types of cancer.
Common Misspellings for PROTEOSOME
- prteasome
- oroteosome
- lroteosome
- -roteosome
- 0roteosome
- peoteosome
- pdoteosome
- pfoteosome
- ptoteosome
- p5oteosome
- p4oteosome
- priteosome
- prkteosome
- prlteosome
- prpteosome
- pr0teosome
- pr9teosome
- proreosome
- profeosome
- progeosome
Etymology of PROTEOSOME
The word "proteasome" is derived from the combination of two terms: "protease" and "some".
1. "Protease" comes from the Greek word "proteus" meaning "first, initial, or primary" and the suffix "-ase" indicating an enzyme. Proteases are a group of enzymes responsible for breaking down proteins by hydrolyzing the peptide bonds between amino acids.
2. The suffix "-some" in this context refers to a body or collection. It is derived from the Greek word "sōma" meaning "body".
Therefore, the term "proteasome" literally means a "collection of proteases" or an "enzyme complex responsible for protein degradation".
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