How Do You Spell CLATHRIN?

Pronunciation: [klˈaθɹɪn] (IPA)

Clathrin is a protein responsible for the formation of coated vesicles in the process of endocytosis. Its spelling follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) symbol system. The word "clathrin" is pronounced /ˈklæθrɪn/, with the main stress on the second syllable, which is pronounced as "ath." The "c" is pronounced as "k," while "th" is pronounced as "θ," similar to the "th" in "bath." The word "clathrin" also follows the English spelling convention of using "i" before "n" when a word ends in a consonant sound.

CLATHRIN Meaning and Definition

1. Clathrin is a protein that plays a crucial role in the process of endocytosis, which is the cellular process of bringing molecules or substances into the cell. It is a major constituent of the clathrin-coated pits, which are specialized structures found on the cell membrane. The clathrin protein forms a lattice-like structure that shapes the coated pits, aiding in the capture and internalization of specific molecules.

   Clathrin is composed of three heavy chains and three light chains that assemble to form triskelion structures. These triskelions further self-assemble to form basket-like structures, known as clathrin cages, through interactions between the heavy chains. The clathrin cages surround the membranes of coated pits, enabling the invagination and subsequent internalization of targeted molecules from the extracellular fluid.

   The formation of clathrin-coated pits and subsequent vesicle formation is an essential process involved in various cellular functions, including receptor-mediated endocytosis, neurotransmitter recycling, and regulation of plasma membrane composition. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis also plays a vital role in cellular processes like nutrient uptake, signaling, and maintenance of proper cell surface levels of receptors.

   Defects or mutations in clathrin or proteins associated with clathrin-coated pit formation can lead to impairments in endocytic trafficking and various cellular processes, potentially contributing to the development of diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and certain cancers. Research on clathrin and its associated proteins continues to advance our understanding of this essential protein's role in cellular physiology and disease mechanisms.

Common Misspellings for CLATHRIN

• clathrein

Etymology of CLATHRIN

The word "clathrin" has its origins in Greek. It is derived from the Greek word "kláthrō", which means "lattice" or "frame". The term "clathrin" was coined by the British cell biologist Robert Chambers in the late 1970s to describe a lattice-like protein structure that he observed during his research on coated vesicles. The name "clathrin" was chosen to reflect the lattice-like appearance of the protein.

Plural form of CLATHRIN is CLATHRINS