MEMBRANE HELIX Meaning and
Definition
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A membrane helix refers to a structural arrangement of amino acids within a protein that allows it to span across a biological membrane. Proteins that possess membrane helices are crucial components of cell membranes and play vital roles in various biological processes.
A membrane helix is composed of a series of amino acid residues that adopt a specific conformation, which enables them to integrate into the hydrophobic environment of the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. Typically, these helices consist of 20 to 30 amino acids, forming an alpha helix structure in which the linear polypeptide chain coils into a spiral shape.
The hydrophobic nature of amino acids within the membrane helix allows them to interact with the lipid molecules forming the membrane, creating a stable association. This enables membrane helices to anchor proteins within the lipid bilayer, giving structural stability to the membrane and facilitating various membrane-associated functions.
Membrane helices can serve diverse functions, such as forming channels or transporters, receptors for signal transduction, or enzymes involved in lipid metabolism. The specific arrangement and composition of amino acids within the membrane helix determine the protein's function and localization within the cell membrane.
Understanding the structure and function of membrane helices is crucial for deciphering the intricate processes occurring at cell membranes, as they are key players in maintaining the integrity and functionality of cellular compartments.
Common Misspellings for MEMBRANE HELIX
- nembrane helix
- kembrane helix
- jembrane helix
- mwmbrane helix
- msmbrane helix
- mdmbrane helix
- mrmbrane helix
- m4mbrane helix
- m3mbrane helix
- menbrane helix
- mekbrane helix
- mejbrane helix
- memvrane helix
- memnrane helix
- memhrane helix
- memgrane helix
- membeane helix
- membdane helix
- membfane helix
- membtane helix
Etymology of MEMBRANE HELIX
The term "membrane helix" is a compound term formed by combining two individual words, "membrane" and "helix".
1. Membrane: The word "membrane" originates from the Latin word "membrāna", which means "skin" or "parchment". It was first used in the English language in the early 17th century to refer to a thin sheet or layer of tissue or material that forms a boundary or separates different compartments. In the context of biology, a membrane refers to a thin, pliable layer of biological material that surrounds and encloses different cellular structures, organelles, or even entire cells.
2. Helix: The word "helix" comes from Greek, where it is derived from the word "h?lix", meaning "spiral" or "twisted".
