How Do You Spell SULFATASE?

Pronunciation: [sˈʌlfɐtˌe͡ɪs] (IPA)

The word "sulfatase" is spelled with the letters S-U-L-F-A-T-A-S-E. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced as /ˈsʌlfeɪteɪz/. The /sʌl/ sound represents the "sul" in the word, followed by the /feɪteɪz/ sound that represents the "fatase". This word refers to an enzyme that can break down the sulfate group in certain molecules. Accurate spelling is important to ensure that this specialized scientific term is reliably communicated in research and academic settings.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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SULFATASE Meaning and Definition

  1. A sulfatase is a type of enzyme that plays a crucial role in the process of sulfate metabolism. It catalyzes the hydrolysis of a sulfate ester bond, thereby breaking down organic compounds containing sulfate groups into their constituent parts. This enzymatic action is essential for the recycling and regulation of sulfate within living organisms.

    Sulfatases are present in various forms across multiple species, ranging from bacteria to plants and animals, including humans. These enzymes are typically produced and secreted by cells and are found in various tissues and organs throughout the body. They are particularly concentrated in regions where sulfate metabolism is prominent, such as the liver, kidneys, and intestines.

    The activity of sulfatases is tightly regulated to maintain sulfur balance within the body. Dysfunction or deficiency of these enzymes can lead to various pathological conditions, such as lysosomal storage disorders, where undigested sulfate-containing compounds accumulate within cells. Consequently, the proper functioning of sulfatases is vital for the degradation and removal of these compounds, assisting in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis.

    Due to their significant role in sulfate metabolism, sulfatases have attracted attention for their potential therapeutic applications. They have been studied for their potential use in the treatment of certain genetic disorders caused by sulfatase deficiencies, as well as in the development of drugs targeting diseases related to abnormal sulfate metabolism, such as cancer and inflammatory disorders.

Etymology of SULFATASE

The word "sulfatase" is derived from the combination of two components: "sulfate" and the suffix "-ase".

1. "Sulfate": The term "sulfate" originates from the Latin word "sulfates" which means "sulfuric acid salt". It is related to the Latin term "sulphur", which represents the element sulfur. "Sulfate" is a chemical compound that contains the sulfate ion (SO4^2-), formed when sulfuric acid reacts with a base or metal.

2. "-ase": The suffix "-ase" is used to denote enzymes. It is derived from the Latin word "āsa" and the Greek word "-asis", both of which emphasize the concept of enzyme activity. Consequently, the suffix "-ase" is commonly associated with enzymes, indicating the capability of a substance to catalyze specific biochemical reactions.