CHROMOPROTEIN Meaning and
Definition
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A chromoprotein is a type of protein that is responsible for the production of color in living organisms. It is characterized by its ability to bind and interact with pigments or chromophores, resulting in the manifestation of vivid hues in various biological structures.
These proteins are essential for many biological processes, such as color vision in animals, protection from harmful radiation, and even signaling mechanisms. One well-known example of a chromoprotein is called phytochrome, which helps plants detect and respond to light. Phytochrome contains a chromophore called bilin, which changes its conformation upon absorbing light of specific wavelengths, initiating critical cellular responses such as phototropism or flowering.
Chromoproteins can be found in a wide range of organisms, from bacteria and fungi to vertebrates. In some organisms, such as certain marine invertebrates, chromoproteins are responsible for the brilliant and vibrant colors observed in their body parts, aiding in camouflage or attracting mates.
The discovery and study of chromoproteins have led to advancements in many fields, including biochemistry, cell biology, and biotechnology. Scientists have been able to engineer and utilize these proteins for applications such as fluorescent imaging, genetic labeling, and biosensors. The remarkable properties of chromoproteins make them valuable tools in various scientific investigations and have contributed to a better understanding of the intricate biological processes that occur within living organisms.
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One of a group of conjugated proteins, consisting of a combination of pigment with a simple protein; hemoglobin is one such compound.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHROMOPROTEIN
- xhromoprotein
- vhromoprotein
- fhromoprotein
- dhromoprotein
- cgromoprotein
- cbromoprotein
- cnromoprotein
- cjromoprotein
- curomoprotein
- cyromoprotein
- cheomoprotein
- chdomoprotein
- chfomoprotein
- chtomoprotein
- ch5omoprotein
- ch4omoprotein
- chrimoprotein
- chrkmoprotein
- chrlmoprotein
- chrpmoprotein
Etymology of CHROMOPROTEIN
The word "chromoprotein" is derived from two root words: "chromo" and "protein".
1. "Chromo" comes from the Greek word "khroma", meaning "color". This root word is commonly used in scientific terminology related to color, pigments, and compounds responsible for coloration.
2. "Protein" comes from the Greek word "proteios", which means "primary" or "first rank". It refers to one of the essential macromolecules found in living organisms, composed of amino acids joined by peptide bonds.
Combining these two root words, "chromoprotein" refers to a protein that is associated with or responsible for color. It is often used to describe proteins that contain pigments or are involved in the mechanism of coloration in living organisms.
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