How Do You Spell RHODANESE?

Pronunciation: [ɹˌə͡ʊdənˈiːz] (IPA)

Rhodanese is a word that refers to an enzyme that speeds up the breakdown of thiosulfate or cyanide molecules in the body. The correct spelling of this word is [ˈroʊdəniz], with the stress on the second syllable. The first two letters of the word, "Rh," are pronounced as a single sound, like the "r" sound followed by a silent "h." The word is derived from the Greek word "rhodon," which means rose-colored, and the suffix "-ase," which is commonly used in naming enzymes.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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RHODANESE Meaning and Definition

  1. Rhodanese is an enzyme primarily found in various tissues of animals, plants, and microorganisms. It plays a vital role in sulfur metabolism by facilitating the conversion of toxic cyanide (CN-) ions into less harmful thiocyanate (SCN-) ions. The term "rhodanese" originates from the ancient Greek word "rhodon," meaning "rose," as the absence of this enzyme in mammals was first identified in red blood cells.

    The rhodanese enzyme acts as a sulfurtransferase, catalyzing the transfer of a sulfur atom from a thiosulfate (S2O32-) molecule to a cyanide ion. This reaction results in the formation of thiocyanate, which is excreted from the body through urine. Rhodanese is believed to contribute to the detoxification of cyanide acquired through various sources such as certain plants, industrial exposure, or drug overdoses.

    Apart from its detoxifying role, rhodanese also participates in other physiological processes. It acts as a regulator of cellular levels of the pivotal sulfur-containing molecule, thiosulfate, and is involved in the biosynthesis of thiamine, an essential vitamin known as vitamin B1. Furthermore, rhodanese has been implicated in pathways related to cysteine metabolism and iron-sulfur cluster assembly.

    Understanding the function and structure of rhodanese holds significance not only in research areas related to sulfur metabolism but also in medical and environmental sciences, as it serves as a potential target for cyanide poisoning treatments and for enhancing the metabolic efficiency of industrial microorganisms.

Common Misspellings for RHODANESE

Etymology of RHODANESE

The word "Rhodanese" is derived from the Greek word "rhodon", meaning "rose", and the suffix "-ese", which is used to denote membership or origin. "Rhodanese" specifically refers to an enzyme that is found in various tissues, including rose petals. The name "Rhodanese" was given to the enzyme due to its initial discovery and isolation from rose petals.