CHAPERONINS Meaning and
Definition
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Chaperonins are a class of protein molecules that play a crucial role in the folding and unfolding of other proteins within cells. They act as molecular chaperones, assisting in the correct folding of nascent polypeptides (short chains of amino acids) into their biologically active three-dimensional structures.
Chaperonins are typically found in all living organisms, including bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes, and are highly conserved throughout evolution. They are composed of multiple subunits that form a barrel-like structure, forming an enclosed cavity where target proteins can fold with minimal interference from other cellular components.
The primary function of chaperonins is to prevent the aggregation of proteins and ensure their correct folding. When a protein is synthesized, it is highly prone to misfolding due to its complex and delicate structure. Chaperonins provide a protective environment where these misfolded proteins can be temporarily sequestered, shielding them from damage and allowing them to refold properly. Chaperonins also facilitate the refolding of denatured or aggregated proteins caused by external stressors, such as heat or chemical insults.
Overall, chaperonins are essential for maintaining protein homeostasis in cells, ensuring proper folding and preventing the accumulation of misfolded or aggregated proteins. Dysfunctions in chaperonins have been linked to various human diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders and cancer, emphasizing their critical role in cellular processes.
Common Misspellings for CHAPERONINS
- xhaperonins
- vhaperonins
- fhaperonins
- dhaperonins
- cgaperonins
- cbaperonins
- cnaperonins
- cjaperonins
- cuaperonins
- cyaperonins
- chzperonins
- chsperonins
- chwperonins
- chqperonins
- chaoeronins
- chaleronins
- cha-eronins
- cha0eronins
- chapwronins
- chapsronins
Etymology of CHAPERONINS
The word chaperonins is derived from the term chaperones, which originated in the late 18th century in English. The term initially referred to individuals, typically married women, who would accompany and supervise younger unmarried women at social events to ensure their safety and adherence to social norms. It comes from the French word chaperon, meaning hood or protector, which itself is derived from the Late Latin word cappa, meaning head covering or hood.
The term chaperonins was later coined in the mid-20th century to describe a class of proteins that act as molecular chaperones, which assist in the folding, assembly, and function of other proteins within cells. This term was formed by adding the suffix -in, which is commonly used to indicate a protein, to the existing word chaperon.
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