How Do You Spell NEPHROLYSIN?

Pronunciation: [nˈɛfɹəlˌɪsɪn] (IPA)

Nephrolysin (IPA: ˌnɛfrəʊˈlaɪsɪn) is a term that refers to an enzyme that is present in the kidneys of vertebrates. Its primary function is to cleave peptides and proteins, thereby aiding in the process of removing waste products from the body. The spelling of the word 'nephrolysin' is derived from the Greek term 'nephros', which means kidney, and 'lysin', which means to break. Despite its complex spelling and pronunciation, the word is commonly used in the scientific community to describe this important enzyme.

NEPHROLYSIN Meaning and Definition

1. Nephrolysin is a term derived from the combination of "nephro," which means kidney, and "lysin," which refers to a substance that breaks down or dissolves. It is primarily used to describe an enzyme known as neutral endopeptidase (NEP), which is commonly found in the kidneys.

   Nephrolysin, or neutral endopeptidase, is an integral protein that plays a crucial role in the renal system. It is responsible for the degradation and elimination of various biologically active substances within the kidney, such as angiotensin II and substance P. These substances are involved in regulating blood pressure, inflammation, and pain transmission.

   The enzymatic activity of nephrolysin occurs by cleaving peptide bonds in these substances, ultimately leading to their breakdown and inactivation. By reducing the concentration and activity of these substances, nephrolysin helps maintain the proper functioning of the kidney and physiological balance within the body.

   Additionally, nephrolysin has been identified in other tissues outside the kidney, including the brain, lungs, and reproductive organs, indicating its involvement in various physiological processes beyond renal function. This widespread distribution highlights the significance of nephrolysin in maintaining homeostasis and modulating various biological pathways.

   Understanding the function and regulation of nephrolysin has important clinical implications. Inhibitors of nephrolysin have been developed and utilized in the treatment of different conditions, including hypertension, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. These inhibitors work by blocking the enzymatic activity of nephrolysin, which can have beneficial effects on blood pressure regulation and inflammatory responses.

   In summary, nephrolysin refers to neutral endopeptidase, an enzyme found primarily in the kidneys that functions to degrade and eliminate bi

2. An antibody causing destruction of the cells of the kidneys, formed in response to the injection of an emulsion of renal substance; it is specific for the species from which the antigen has been obtained.

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

Common Misspellings for NEPHROLYSIN

• bephrolysin
• mephrolysin
• jephrolysin
• hephrolysin
• nwphrolysin
• nsphrolysin
• ndphrolysin
• nrphrolysin
• n4phrolysin
• n3phrolysin
• neohrolysin
• nelhrolysin
• ne-hrolysin
• ne0hrolysin
• nepgrolysin
• nepbrolysin
• nepnrolysin
• nepjrolysin
• nepurolysin
• nepyrolysin

Etymology of NEPHROLYSIN

The word "nephrolysin" is derived from a combination of two terms: "nephro" and "lysin".

1. "Nephro" is derived from the Greek word "nephros" (νεφρός), which means "kidney". This term is commonly used in medical and biological contexts to refer to the kidney or its related functions.

2. "Lysin" refers to an enzyme that catalyzes the breakdown or lysis of molecules. It is linked to the Greek word "lysis" (λύσις), which means "loosen" or "dissolve".

Therefore, when combined, "nephrolysin" can be understood as an enzyme involved in the breakdown or dissolution of substances specifically within the context of the kidney.