AMINOTRANSFER Meaning and
Definition
-
Aminotransfer, also known as transaminase, refers to a class of enzymes that facilitate the transfer of an amino group from one molecule to another. These enzymes play a crucial role in various metabolic processes within cells. Aminotransferases are specifically involved in the transfer of amino groups from an amino acid to an alpha-keto acid, resulting in the conversion of the initial amino acid into a different amino acid and alpha-keto acid into a different keto acid.
The transfer of the amino group occurs through a complex mechanism that involves the coenzyme pyridoxal phosphate (PLP). PLP forms a Schiff base with the amino acid, allowing the amino group to be easily transferred to the alpha-keto acid, forming a new amino acid and keto acid. This process is highly specific, as aminotransferases usually act on specific pairs of amino acids and alpha-keto acids.
The aminotransfer reaction is essential for the synthesis and metabolism of amino acids, as it facilitates the conversion of one amino acid into another, participating in the biosynthesis of various important biomolecules. Additionally, aminotransferases are critical in the degradative pathways of amino acids, as they convert certain amino acids into intermediates that can enter other metabolic pathways.
Due to their involvement in various metabolic processes, aminotransferases are widely studied and utilized in clinical settings. They are commonly measured in blood tests to evaluate liver and heart functions, as elevated levels of certain aminotransferases can indicate tissue damage or disease.
Common Misspellings for AMINOTRANSFER
- zminotransfer
- sminotransfer
- wminotransfer
- qminotransfer
- aninotransfer
- akinotransfer
- ajinotransfer
- amunotransfer
- amjnotransfer
- amknotransfer
- amonotransfer
- am9notransfer
- am8notransfer
- amibotransfer
- amimotransfer
- amijotransfer
- amihotransfer
- aminitransfer
- aminktransfer
- aminltransfer
Etymology of AMINOTRANSFER
The word "aminotransfer" is derived from two parts: "amino" and "transfer".
- "Amino" comes from the Latin word "amīnus" or "amō" meaning "nitrogen-containing". It is often used as a prefix in scientific terms to indicate the presence of an amino group (-NH₂), which is a nitrogen and hydrogen atom bonded together.
- "Transfer" comes from the Latin word "transferre" (trans-: "across" + ferre: "to carry"). It refers to the action of moving or transporting something from one place to another.
In the context of "aminotransfer", the word refers to the transfer or movement of an amino group from one molecule to another, often involving the conversion of an amino acid to a different molecule. Aminotransferase enzymes (also known as transaminases) facilitate this transfer process.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
