CYTOCHROME Meaning and
Definition
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Cytochrome is a type of protein complex found in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells and in the plasma membranes of prokaryotic cells. It plays a critical role in cellular respiration, the process that converts glucose and oxygen into energy-rich molecules known as ATP.
Specifically, cytochromes are involved in the electron transport chain, which is part of the process of oxidative phosphorylation. They function as electron carriers, shuttling electrons between different protein complexes within the mitochondrial inner membrane. Cytochromes typically contain a heme group, made up of an iron atom coordinated by a porphyrin molecule, which allows them to transfer electrons between different biomolecules.
In addition to their role in energy production, cytochromes also participate in other cellular processes, such as detoxification reactions and the synthesis of certain biomolecules. They are highly diverse, with multiple forms and variants found across different organisms. Each cytochrome is designated by a letter, followed by a number, indicating its specific type and subunit.
The study of cytochromes and their structure-function relationships is important in fields such as biochemistry and molecular biology. Understanding the function of these proteins can aid in the development of drugs and therapies targeting mitochondrial diseases and other health conditions related to energy metabolism.
Common Misspellings for CYTOCHROME
Etymology of CYTOCHROME
The word "cytochrome" comes from the combination of two Greek words: "cyto" and "chroma".
The term "cyto" is derived from the Greek word "kytos", which means "cell". It is commonly used as a prefix in various biological terms related to cells, such as cytoplasm or cytology.
The second part of the word, "chroma", is derived from the Greek word "chrōma", meaning "color". This term is related to the pigments or chromophores involved in various biological processes, such as photosynthesis or visual response.
Hence, the combination of "cyto" and "chroma" in "cytochrome" refers to a molecule or series of molecules involved in electron transport within cells, which contain a specific colored pigment.
Similar spelling word for CYTOCHROME
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