How Do You Spell KEPHALIN?

Pronunciation: [kˈɛfɐlˌɪn] (IPA)

Kephalin is a biochemical compound found in the brain and central nervous system. Its spelling may seem confusing, but the IPA phonetic transcription can provide some clarity. The first syllable, "keph," is pronounced /ˈkɛf/, with a short "e" sound and a hard "k." The second syllable, "alin," is pronounced /əˈlin/, with a schwa sound for the first vowel and a long "i" sound for the second. When combined, it creates the final pronunciation of /ˈkɛfəlɪn/.

KEPHALIN Meaning and Definition

1. Kephalin is a type of phospholipid compound that is essential for various physiological functions in the human body. It belongs to the family of phosphatidylserine and is widely found in cell membranes, particularly in the brain cells. The term "kephalin" is derived from the Greek word "kephalē," meaning head, which reflects its prominent presence in the brain.

   The molecular structure of kephalin consists of a glycerol-based backbone attached to two fatty acid chains and a phosphate group. One of the fatty acid chains is saturated, while the other is unsaturated, imparting fluidity to the cell membrane. The phosphate group is responsible for the hydrophilic nature of kephalin, enabling it to interact with water molecules.

   Kephalin plays a crucial role in cell signaling and membrane function. It assists in maintaining the integrity and fluidity of cell membranes and regulates the movement of molecules in and out of cells. Additionally, it acts as a precursor for other phospholipids and participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters.

   Deficiencies in kephalin have been associated with various neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia. Studies have shown that supplementing with kephalin or phospholipids containing kephalin can enhance cognitive functions, improve memory, and alleviate symptoms of these conditions.

   In summary, kephalin is a phospholipid compound found predominantly in the brain cells. It is vital for the proper functioning of cell membranes, cell signaling, and neurotransmitter synthesis. Deficiencies in kephalin can lead to neurological disorders, making it a critical component for overall brain health.

2. Cephalin.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for KEPHALIN

• jephalin
• mephalin
• lephalin
• oephalin
• iephalin
• kwphalin
• ksphalin
• kdphalin
• krphalin
• k4phalin
• k3phalin
• keohalin
• kelhalin
• ke-halin
• ke0halin
• kepgalin
• kepbalin
• kepnalin
• kepjalin
• kepualin

Etymology of KEPHALIN

The word "Kephalin" is derived from the Greek word "kephalē", meaning "head" or "top". In the context of the term "Kephalin", it refers to the lipid substance found in the brain and nervous tissue, which was named so due to its prevalence in the head region. The -in suffix is commonly used in chemistry and biochemistry to denote a substance or compound.