MOLECULAR CHAPERONES Meaning and
Definition
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Molecular chaperones are a group of proteins that play a crucial role in protein folding and maintaining protein homeostasis within cells. They assist in the folding and assembly of newly synthesized proteins, ensuring their correct three-dimensional structure and functional integrity.
These chaperones are referred to as "molecular" due to their small size and their ability to interact directly with polypeptide chains, enabling them to facilitate the folding process. They recognize and bind to unfolded or misfolded proteins, preventing them from aggregating or forming non-functional structures. By maintaining the correct folding pathway, molecular chaperones help to prevent protein misfolding, which is associated with numerous diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Molecular chaperones are involved in various cellular processes, including protein translocation across membranes, protein refolding after stress, and quality control mechanisms. They can also act as sensors of cellular stress, as their expression increases under adverse conditions such as heat shock, oxidative stress, or nutrient deprivation.
Overall, molecular chaperones are essential components of the protein folding machinery within cells, ensuring the proper folding and functional activity of proteins. Their intricate network of interactions and mechanisms work to maintain protein homeostasis, which is essential for cellular functioning and overall organismal health.
Common Misspellings for MOLECULAR CHAPERONES
- nolecular chaperones
- kolecular chaperones
- jolecular chaperones
- milecular chaperones
- mklecular chaperones
- mllecular chaperones
- mplecular chaperones
- m0lecular chaperones
- m9lecular chaperones
- mokecular chaperones
- mopecular chaperones
- mooecular chaperones
- molwcular chaperones
- molscular chaperones
- moldcular chaperones
- molrcular chaperones
- mol4cular chaperones
- mol3cular chaperones
- molexular chaperones
- molevular chaperones
Etymology of MOLECULAR CHAPERONES
The word "molecular chaperones" combines the terms "molecular" and "chaperones".
1. Molecular: The term "molecular" is derived from the Latin word "molecula", which means "a small mass". It is the adjectival form of "molecule", which refers to the smallest unit of a substance that retains its chemical properties. The term first appeared in the late 18th century.
2. Chaperones: The term "chaperone" originated from the French word "chaperon", which means "hood" or "hooded cloak". In medieval times, a "chaperon" referred to a person who accompanied young unmarried women on social occasions to ensure their safety and proper behavior. The term was later borrowed into English in the mid-19th century to describe a person who accompanies and supervises someone, especially in an educational or social setting.
