PHOTOREACTIVATING ENZYME Meaning and
Definition
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Photoreactivating enzyme, also known as photolyase or DNA photolyase, is a specialized enzyme found in certain organisms that repairs ultraviolet (UV) light-induced DNA damage.
When DNA is exposed to UV radiation, the ultraviolet rays cause the formation of a specific type of DNA lesion called a cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD). CPDs are formed when adjacent bases in DNA form covalent bonds between their carbon atoms, distorting the DNA's double helix structure. If left unrepaired, CPDs can lead to mutations and disrupt normal DNA functions.
Photoreactivating enzymes work by using the energy from visible light to break the covalent bonds within CPDs, thus reverting the DNA back to its undamaged state. These enzymes contain a light-absorbing chromophore group, typically flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) or, less commonly, a blue-light sensing flavin (BLUF) domain. When activated by visible light, the enzyme undergoes a series of electron transfer reactions that ultimately result in CPD repair.
Photoreactivating enzymes are commonly found in organisms such as bacteria, fungi, and plants, but are absent in humans and many other animals. They have been extensively studied in the field of photobiology, as they provide a natural defense mechanism against UV damage. Researchers have also explored their potential applications in genetic engineering, as they can be used to repair DNA damage caused by UV exposure or other environmental factors.
Common Misspellings for PHOTOREACTIVATING ENZYME
- ohotoreactivating enzyme
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- -hotoreactivating enzyme
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- pgotoreactivating enzyme
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- phororeactivating enzyme
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- phogoreactivating enzyme
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Etymology of PHOTOREACTIVATING ENZYME
The word "photoreactivating enzyme" is derived from its components: "photo", "reactivating", and "enzyme".
1. "Photo" comes from the Greek word "phos" (φῶς), meaning "light".
2. "Reactivating" is formed from the verb "reactivate", which means to restore or bring back to an active state.
3. "Enzyme" is derived from the Greek word "enzymos" (ἔνζυμος), which means "leavened" or "in yeast".
Therefore, "photoreactivating enzyme" refers to an enzyme that restores or activates certain functions when exposed to light. This term is commonly used in biology and biochemistry to describe enzymes that repair DNA damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure.
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