How Do You Spell CALCINEURIN?

Pronunciation: [kˈalsɪnjˌuːɹɪn] (IPA)

Calcineurin is a protein that plays a crucial role in numerous cellular processes, including signal transduction and gene expression. The word "Calcineurin" is spelled with three syllables: cal-ci-neur-in. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /ˌkælsəˈnʊərɪn/. The first syllable is pronounced with the short "a" sound followed by the "l" and "s" sounds. The second syllable has a short "i" sound followed by the "n" and "eu" sounds. The third syllable is pronounced with the "ur" and "in" sounds.

CALCINEURIN Meaning and Definition

1. Calcineurin is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in signal transduction and maintaining cellular homeostasis. It is a calcium-dependent serine/threonine phosphatase, meaning it removes phosphate groups from specific serine and threonine residues on target proteins. The name "calcineurin" is derived from its ability to regulate the transcription factor known as nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT), which plays a critical role in the immune response.

   Calcineurin is highly conserved across different species, indicating its fundamental importance in cellular processes. It is composed of two subunits, a catalytic subunit (Calcineurin A) and a regulatory subunit (Calcineurin B), which binds calcium. Upon an increase in intracellular calcium levels, Calcineurin B undergoes a conformational change and activates Calcineurin A, allowing it to dephosphorylate target proteins.

   The main function of calcineurin is the regulation of cellular processes such as gene expression, immune response, and cell differentiation. It is especially vital in lymphocytes, where it triggers the activation and proliferation of T cells, upon interaction with antigen-presenting cells.

   Additionally, calcineurin inhibition by pharmaceutical agents such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus has been widely used in immunosuppressive therapy, particularly in organ transplantation, to prevent rejection. By targeting calcineurin-dependent pathways, these drugs dampen the immune response, reducing the risk of tissue rejection.

   In conclusion, calcineurin is an enzyme that plays a pivotal role in calcium-dependent signal transduction, immune response, and cellular homeostasis, making it a crucial molecule in various physiological and pathological processes.

Common Misspellings for CALCINEURIN

• calcineyrin

Etymology of CALCINEURIN

The word "Calcineurin" is derived from two parts: "calcium" and "neurin".

- "Calcium" refers to the chemical element calcium, known for its role in various biological processes, including muscle contraction, enzyme function, and signaling.

- "Neurin" is a term derived from "neuron", which refers to nerve cells. Neurons are vital components of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals.

Combining these two parts, "calcium" and "neurin", the word "Calcineurin" was coined to represent a calcium-dependent enzyme that is involved in the regulation of multiple cellular processes, particularly in neurons.