COMPATIBLE SOLUTE Meaning and
Definition
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A compatible solute refers to a small organic molecule, typically found in certain microorganisms, that aids in their survival under conditions of stress or extreme environments. These solutes play a crucial role in maintaining cellular functions and protecting the microorganism from adverse conditions such as high salinity, low water availability, extreme temperatures, or high osmotic pressure.
Compatible solutes are known for their ability to accumulate inside the cells without interfering with the normal cell functions. They are highly soluble in water and have low toxicity, making them suitable for the survival of microorganisms in diverse environments. These solutes include compounds like amino acids, sugars, betaines, proline, and ectoine, which are able to protect cellular structures and macromolecules from damage caused by stress.
The accumulation of compatible solutes occurs through various mechanisms, such as biosynthesis or uptake from the surrounding environment. Once accumulated, these solutes maintain the osmotic balance within the cells, preventing water loss and maintaining cell volume. Furthermore, they act as stabilizers for proteins and membranes, preserving their functionality under stressful conditions.
Compatible solutes have garnered significant scientific interest due to their potential biotechnological applications. Their ability to confer stress tolerance has led to investigations into their use in various industries, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and food preservation. Furthermore, understanding the biosynthesis and transport mechanisms of compatible solutes could aid in the development of stress-tolerant crops, the production of stress-resistant microbial strains, and the design of novel biomaterials.
Common Misspellings for COMPATIBLE SOLUTE
- xompatible solute
- vompatible solute
- fompatible solute
- dompatible solute
- cimpatible solute
- ckmpatible solute
- clmpatible solute
- cpmpatible solute
- c0mpatible solute
- c9mpatible solute
- conpatible solute
- cokpatible solute
- cojpatible solute
- comoatible solute
- comlatible solute
- com0atible solute
- compztible solute
- compstible solute
- compwtible solute
- compqtible solute
Etymology of COMPATIBLE SOLUTE
The word "compatible" originates from the Latin word "compatibilis", which means "capable of existing or living together in harmony". It is derived from the words "com-" meaning "together" and "pati" meaning "to suffer".
The term "solute" comes from the Latin word "solūtus", which means "loose, dissolved". It is derived from "solvere", meaning "to loosen".
The combination "compatible solute" is a scientific term used in biology and refers to a type of solute (a substance dissolved in a solvent) that enables organisms to survive in extreme environmental conditions. These solutes are compatible with biological macromolecules and help maintain cellular functions in stressful situations. The term "compatible solute" likely emerged from the need to describe such solutes that are compatible with the biological systems.
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