NLS RECEPTOR Meaning and
Definition
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NLS receptor refers to the nuclear localization signal receptor, which is a biological component responsible for recognizing and facilitating the transport of nuclear localization signals (NLS) to the cell nucleus. NLS receptors play a critical role in regulating the trafficking of proteins between the cytoplasm and nucleus, which is a fundamental process for various cellular functions.
The cell nucleus is a highly organized and vital cellular compartment where genetic material is housed, and numerous activities, such as gene expression and DNA replication, occur. However, proteins synthesized in the cytoplasm need to be selectively transported into the nucleus to perform their specific functions. This transport is facilitated by specific sequences, known as nuclear localization signals, present in the proteins.
NLS receptors act as recognition molecules for these NLS sequences, binding to the NLS and subsequently guiding the protein cargo into the nucleus. They function by recognizing the NLS and helping to dock the protein complex at the nuclear pore complex, a gateway for transport between the cytoplasm and nucleus. Once the protein complex is directed to the nucleus, the NLS receptor dissociates, and the protein is released into the nuclear interior.
NLS receptors play a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and regulating various cellular processes such as signal transduction, gene expression, cell cycle progression, and DNA repair. Their dysfunction or malfunction can lead to impaired transport of proteins and subsequently disrupt cellular functions, potentially contributing to the development of diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
In conclusion, NLS receptors are essential components that recognize and facilitate the transport of nuclear localization signals, allowing proteins to be selectively transported into the nucleus for their appropriate cellular functions.
Common Misspellings for NLS RECEPTOR
- bls receptor
- mls receptor
- jls receptor
- hls receptor
- nks receptor
- nos receptor
- nla receptor
- nlz receptor
- nlx receptor
- nld receptor
- nle receptor
- nlw receptor
- nls eeceptor
- nls deceptor
- nls feceptor
- nls teceptor
- nls 5eceptor
- nls 4eceptor
- nls rwceptor
- nls rsceptor
Etymology of NLS RECEPTOR
The etymology of the word "NLS receptor" can be understood by breaking it down into its components.
1. NLS: NLS stands for "Nuclear Localization Signal". It refers to a short amino acid sequence that acts as a sorting signal in proteins, guiding them to the cell nucleus. The term "Nuclear Localization Signal" was coined by Adam S. Johnson and Philip Needleman in 1987.
2. Receptor: The term "receptor" comes from the Latin word "receptus", meaning "received". It refers to a protein molecule that receives and binds specific molecules, signaling a biological response or reaction. The concept of receptors in biology was first proposed by John Newport Langley in the early 20th century.
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