NUCLEOPORIN Meaning and
Definition
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A nucleoporin (Nup) is a class of proteins that are essential components of the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Found in the nuclear membrane of eukaryotic cells, the NPC serves as a gatekeeper for the transport of molecules—such as RNA and proteins—between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Nucleoporins are fundamental building blocks that form the structural framework of the NPC.
Nucleoporins are responsible for various crucial functions within the NPC. Firstly, they contribute to the overall structure and stability of the complex, ensuring its integrity. Additionally, they act as docking sites for transport factors and cargo molecules, facilitating their passage across the nuclear envelope. Nucleoporins also possess selective barriers, regulating the transport of molecules based on size and charge.
These proteins often exhibit a repetitive, modular architecture, with characteristic sequences called "nucleoporin domains." These domains are involved in the assembly and organization of the NPC, as well as mediating interactions between nucleoporins and other factors.
Mutations or dysregulation of nucleoporins can have significant consequences on nucleocytoplasmic transport and cellular homeostasis. Disruptions in nucleoporin function have been associated with various diseases, including certain cancers and neurodegenerative disorders.
The study of nucleoporins and the nuclear pore complex is vital for understanding basic cellular functions, as well as providing insights into molecular mechanisms underlying diseases. Research in this field continues to unveil the complex interactions and regulatory networks associated with nucleocytoplasmic transport.
Common Misspellings for NUCLEOPORIN
- bucleoporin
- mucleoporin
- jucleoporin
- hucleoporin
- nycleoporin
- nhcleoporin
- njcleoporin
- nicleoporin
- n8cleoporin
- n7cleoporin
- nuxleoporin
- nuvleoporin
- nufleoporin
- nudleoporin
- nuckeoporin
- nucpeoporin
- nucoeoporin
- nuclwoporin
- nuclsoporin
- nucldoporin
Etymology of NUCLEOPORIN
The word "nucleoporin" is derived from the combination of two terms: "nucleo" and "porin".
1. "Nucleo" refers to the nucleus, which is the central and most vital part of a cell. It contains the genetic material, DNA, and controls cellular activities.
2. "Porin" refers to a type of protein that forms pores or channels in the cell membrane. These pores allow the passage of molecules and ions in and out of the cell.
When these two terms are combined, "nucleoporin" refers to a type of protein that forms pores in the nuclear envelope, allowing the transportation of molecules between the nucleus and the rest of the cell.
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