How Do You Spell PEROXISOME?

Pronunciation: [pˈɛɹəksˌisʌm] (IPA)

The word "Peroxisome" is spelled with the letters P, E, R, O, X, I, S, O, M, and E. In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it can be transcribed as /pɛɹəksɪsoʊm/. This transcription shows that the first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɛ/ (like the "e" in "bed"), followed by the consonants /ɹ/ and /k/. The second syllable has the vowel sound /oʊ/ (like the "o" in "boat"), and the third syllable has the consonant blend /ks/ before the vowel sound /ɪ/ (like the "i" in "sit"). The final syllable has the vowel sound /oʊ/ again, followed by the consonant /m/.

PEROXISOME Meaning and Definition

1. A peroxisome is a specialized organelle found in eukaryotic cells, ranging in size from 0.1 to 1.0 micrometers. It is delimited by a single membrane, contains enzymes with various functions, and is involved in distinct metabolic processes. Peroxisomes play a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis by participating in several important biochemical reactions.

   The primary function of peroxisomes is the detoxification of harmful substances, primarily hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a byproduct of cellular metabolism, through the action of an enzyme called catalase. This enzyme rapidly converts hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen, preventing the accumulation of this potentially damaging compound within the cell.

   Furthermore, peroxisomes are involved in the breakdown of very-long-chain fatty acids, which are derived from dietary fats or synthesized within the cell. They also participate in the synthesis of certain lipids, such as cholesterol and bile acids, as well as the metabolism of ethanol, purines, and polyamines.

   Peroxisomes are essential for the proper functioning of various tissues and organs, including liver and kidney, where they are particularly abundant due to their important roles in detoxification and lipid metabolism. Defects in peroxisomal function are associated with a group of genetic disorders called peroxisomal biogenesis disorders, characterized by impaired peroxisome formation and function, and resulting in serious health issues.

Common Misspellings for PEROXISOME

• perosome
• Paroxisme

Etymology of PEROXISOME

The word "peroxisome" originates from the combination of two words: "peroxide" and "soma".

1. "Peroxide" refers to a compound containing oxygen in a higher oxidation state. It is derived from the Latin words "per" meaning "through" or "completely", and "oxydum" meaning "oxide".

2. "Soma" comes from the Greek word "sōma", meaning "body" or "cell".

Therefore, "peroxisome" refers to a cell organelle that contains enzymes involved in the oxidation of various biomolecules through the use of hydrogen peroxide (a peroxide compound). The term was first proposed by the Belgian biochemist Christian de Duve in 1966.

Similar spelling words for PEROXISOME

• paroxysm,
• bruxism.

Plural form of PEROXISOME is PEROXISOMES