Protein

Definition

Protein is a large molecule composed of one or more chains of amino acids in a specific order, required for the structure, function, and regulation of an organism's cells, tissues, and organs.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈproʊtiːn/
• Respelling: PROH-teen (with "PROH" as in "pro" and "teen" as in "teenager")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈprəʊtiːn/
• Respelling: PROH-teen (with "PROH" as in "pro" and "teen" as in "teenager")

In both dialects, the stress is on the first syllable, "PROH," with a clear pronunciation of the "teen" at the end. The primary difference lies in the vowel sound of the first syllable, with a more rounded "o" sound in British English.

Etymology

The term "protein" is derived from the Greek word "proteios", meaning "primary" or "holding the first place". The term was introduced in the early 19th century by Jöns Jakob Berzelius, a Swedish chemist, to describe these substances of seemingly primary importance to the organism.

Derivatives

• Proteome
• Proteomics
• Proteinaceous
• Proteolysis
• Protease

Synonyms

• Polypeptide
• Amino acid chain
• Macromolecule

Antonyms

• None (Specific terms, especially those related to scientific concepts, often don't have direct antonyms.)

Usage

"Protein" is predominantly used in biological, nutritional, and medical contexts to describe the essential molecules that play critical roles in bodily processes.

Related Terms

• Enzyme
• Amino acid
• Protein synthesis
• Protein structure

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A complex organic compound made up of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, constituting a primary component in the diets of humans and animals, and necessary for the growth and repair of tissues.
• Example: Meat, fish, and legumes are excellent sources of protein.

• Any of a class of nitrogenous organic compounds which have large molecules composed of one or more long chains of amino acids and are essential for all living organisms, especially as the building blocks of body tissue.
• Example: The structure of a protein is vital to its function in the cell.

• In biochemistry, a molecule consisting of polypeptides folded into a functional three-dimensional shape.
• Example: The hemoglobin protein is responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood.