Hordein is a type of storage protein found in barley grains, but its spelling might be a bit confusing for some. The word "Hordein" is pronounced /hɔr'din/ with the stress on the first syllable. The "h" is silent, and the first "o" is pronounced as "aw" in "saw." The second syllable, "-dein," is spelled with the common "-ein" ending often used in Germanic languages. So, to accurately spell and pronounce "Hordein," one must remember its unique spelling and its phonetic transcription.
Hordein is a term that refers to a group of closely related storage proteins found in the seeds of barley, Hordeum vulgare. It belongs to the prolamins family of plant proteins, which are typically abundant in cereal grains. Hordein makes up a significant portion of barley protein composition, accounting for around 50-70% of the total protein content in the grain.
These proteins play a crucial role in providing the necessary amino acids and energy for the germination and growth of the barley seedlings. Hordein is primarily involved in the regulation of water and nutrient storage within the grain, thereby assisting in the early stages of plant development.
Although hordein is an important source of nutrition for barley plants, it poses challenges for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Like other prolamins such as gliadin in wheat and secalin in rye, hordein contains gluten-like proteins that can trigger an autoimmune response in susceptible individuals, leading to damage in the small intestine.
Hordein can be separated into several different fractions, each defined by their unique amino acid sequences and molecular weights. These fractions, known as B, C, and gamma hordeins, vary in their solubility and structural characteristics, influencing the overall functionality of the hordein protein complex. Understanding the properties and composition of hordein is crucial in developing gluten-free barley cultivars and improving the nutritional value of this important cereal crop.
A gliadin derived from barley.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "hordein" is derived from the Latin term "hordeum", which means "barley". Hordein refers to a specific protein found in barley, particularly in the endosperm, which is the storage tissue of cereal grains. This protein contributes to the characteristic properties of barley and is responsible for its elasticity and ability to form gluten when mixed with water.