PHOSPHATE PERMEASE Meaning and
Definition
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Phosphate permease refers to a specific type of protein that facilitates the transportation of phosphate ions across the cell membrane. This protein acts as a carrier molecule, selectively transporting phosphate ions into or out of the cell, depending on its concentration gradient.
Phosphates are essential molecules involved in numerous biological processes, predominantly in cell metabolism and energy production. They are crucial components of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), ATP (adenosine triphosphate), phospholipids, and various enzymes.
Phosphate permeases play a fundamental role in maintaining phosphate homeostasis within the cell. They allow the uptake of phosphate ions from the environment when their concentration is low, ensuring a steady supply of this essential nutrient for cellular processes. Conversely, when the cell has a surplus of phosphate ions, the permease can actively export them out of the cell.
Phosphate permeases can be found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, indicating their evolutionary significance. In bacteria, they are often encoded by specific genes, and their activity can be regulated by various factors such as phosphate concentration, pH, and genetic factors.
The proper functioning of phosphate permeases is vital for overall cellular health and growth. Disruptions or mutations in these proteins can lead to imbalances in phosphate levels, impairing important cellular functions. Consequently, they have significant implications in various diseases and metabolic disorders, highlighting the importance of studying and understanding these transporters.
Common Misspellings for PHOSPHATE PERMEASE
- ohosphate permease
- lhosphate permease
- 0hosphate permease
- pgosphate permease
- pbosphate permease
- pnosphate permease
- pjosphate permease
- puosphate permease
- pyosphate permease
- phisphate permease
- phksphate permease
- phlsphate permease
- phpsphate permease
- ph0sphate permease
- ph9sphate permease
- phoaphate permease
- phozphate permease
- phoxphate permease
- phodphate permease
- phoephate permease
Etymology of PHOSPHATE PERMEASE
The etymology of the term "phosphate permease" can be broken down as follows:
1. Phosphate: The word "phosphate" derives from the Greek word "phosphoros", meaning "light-bearing" or "light-bringing". This is because phosphorus was historically commonly used in matches and fireworks. The term "phosphate" specifically refers to a salt or an ester of phosphoric acid.
2. Permease: The term "permease" is a combination of two Latin words: "permeare", meaning "to pass through" or "to penetrate", and the suffix "-ase", typically indicating an enzyme. Therefore, "permease" suggests a protein or enzyme involved in facilitating the passage or transport of molecules across a biological membrane.
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