PROTOFILAMENT Meaning and
Definition
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A protofilament is a structural unit that comprises the building blocks of larger protein filaments, such as microtubules and intermediate filaments. It represents a linear polymer chain consisting of repeating subunits known as monomers, which are arranged in a helical fashion. These monomers are typically protein subunits that interact with each other to form the protofilament.
In microtubules, for example, the protofilaments consist of α-tubulin and β-tubulin dimers. Each protofilament contains multiple dimers stacked tightly together, giving rise to a hollow tubular structure. These protofilaments align alongside each other, further associating laterally to form the microtubule. The arrangement of protofilaments provides stability and rigidity to the microtubule, enabling it to perform essential functions in cellular processes like cell division and intracellular transport.
Similarly, in intermediate filaments, protofilaments are formed by the association of protein monomers called intermediate filament proteins. These protofilaments intertwine with each other, creating a rope-like structure that provides mechanical strength and resilience to cells, especially in tissues subjected to mechanical stress.
Due to their role in forming larger protein filaments, protofilaments are crucial for maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of cells. Understanding the properties and assembly of protofilaments is essential for studying various biological processes and potential therapeutic interventions targeting protein filaments.
Common Misspellings for PROTOFILAMENT
- orotofilament
- lrotofilament
- 0rotofilament
- peotofilament
- pdotofilament
- pfotofilament
- ptotofilament
- p5otofilament
- p4otofilament
- pritofilament
- prktofilament
- prltofilament
- prptofilament
- pr0tofilament
- pr9tofilament
- prorofilament
- profofilament
- progofilament
- proyofilament
- pro6ofilament
Etymology of PROTOFILAMENT
The word "protofilament" is composed of two parts: "proto-" and "filament".
1. Proto-:
The prefix "proto-" comes from the Greek word "prôtos", meaning "first" or "original". It conveys the concept of something being first in sequence or being a precursor to something else. It is often used in scientific and technical terms to indicate an initial or primitive form.
2. Filament:
The term "filament" is derived from the Latin word "filum", which means "thread" or "fiber". In English, it refers to a long, slender strand or thread-like structure.
When combined, "protofilament" refers to the initial or primitive form of a filament. This term is commonly used in biology and chemistry to describe the subunits or building blocks that make up larger filaments, such as microtubules or actin filaments.
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