HYALURONAN RECEPTORS Meaning and
Definition
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Hyaluronan receptors refer to a group of cell surface receptors that specifically bind to a polysaccharide called hyaluronan. Hyaluronan, also known as hyaluronic acid, is a large, linear, and non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is widely distributed in the extracellular matrix of vertebrate tissues. It is involved in various physiological and pathological processes, including cell proliferation, migration, and tissue regeneration.
Hyaluronan receptors are integral membrane proteins that are commonly found on the surface of different cell types, such as fibroblasts, leukocytes, and endothelial cells. These receptors play a crucial role in mediating the interactions between hyaluronan and cells. They are responsible for the binding and internalization of hyaluronan, thereby influencing various cellular activities.
There are several types of hyaluronan receptors that have been identified, including CD44, RHAMM (receptor for hyaluronan-mediated motility), and LYVE-1 (lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1). CD44 is the most extensively studied hyaluronan receptor and is expressed on various cell types. It is involved in cell adhesion, migration, and signaling, and has been implicated in various physiological processes, including embryogenesis and wound healing.
The binding of hyaluronan to its receptors can trigger a cascade of intracellular signaling events, leading to changes in cell behavior and function. These receptors, therefore, serve as important mediators of hyaluronan's biological effects and are essential components of the hyaluronan signaling pathway.
Common Misspellings for HYALURONAN RECEPTORS
- gyaluronan receptors
- byaluronan receptors
- nyaluronan receptors
- jyaluronan receptors
- uyaluronan receptors
- yyaluronan receptors
- htaluronan receptors
- hgaluronan receptors
- hhaluronan receptors
- hualuronan receptors
- h7aluronan receptors
- h6aluronan receptors
- hyzluronan receptors
- hysluronan receptors
- hywluronan receptors
- hyqluronan receptors
- hyakuronan receptors
- hyapuronan receptors
- hyaouronan receptors
- hyalyronan receptors
Etymology of HYALURONAN RECEPTORS
The word "Hyaluronan Receptors" has its etymology rooted in the combination of two main components: "hyaluronan" and "receptors".
1. Hyaluronan: The term "hyaluronan" is derived from the Greek word "hyalos", meaning "glass" or "transparent", and "uron", which refers to "uronic acid". It is a polysaccharide or a glycosaminoglycan that is composed of repeating disaccharide units. "Hyalos" signifies the transparent and glassy appearance of hyaluronic acid when extracted and purified.
2. Receptors: The term "receptors" originates from the Latin word "receptus", meaning "received" or "taken". In the scientific context, receptors are proteins or molecules on the surface of cells that can bind to specific ligands and initiate a biological response.
