ESCORT PROTEIN Meaning and
Definition
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An escort protein, also known as a chaperone protein, refers to a specialized protein molecule that assists in the correct folding, assembly, and transport of other proteins within a cell. Its primary function is to maintain protein homeostasis by preventing misfolding, aggregation, or degradation during protein synthesis or under stress conditions.
Escort proteins act as molecular "bodyguards," accompanying newly synthesized or stress-induced proteins and guiding them to their appropriate destination within the cell. They play a crucial role in the quality control of protein folding, ensuring that proteins reach their final three-dimensional structure, thereby preventing the formation of non-functional or harmful protein aggregates.
Furthermore, escort proteins may assist in the transport of proteins across membranes or help them traverse specific cellular compartments. They can recognize exposed hydrophobic regions on unfolded or partially folded proteins and prevent their irreversible aggregation by shielding these regions. Through their ATP-dependent enzymatic activities, they can also disassemble protein aggregates and facilitate the refolding process.
In addition to their protein folding assistance, escort proteins are involved in signaling pathways, cell cycle control, and cellular stress responses. They provide stability and protection to a wide range of regulatory proteins, contributing to cellular function and integrity.
Overall, escort proteins play a fundamental role in maintaining cellular proteostasis, supporting proper protein folding, preventing molecular damage, and ensuring the appropriate distribution of proteins within the cell.
Common Misspellings for ESCORT PROTEIN
- wscort protein
- sscort protein
- dscort protein
- rscort protein
- 4scort protein
- 3scort protein
- eacort protein
- ezcort protein
- excort protein
- edcort protein
- eecort protein
- ewcort protein
- esxort protein
- esvort protein
- esfort protein
- esdort protein
- escirt protein
- esckrt protein
- esclrt protein
- escprt protein
Etymology of ESCORT PROTEIN
The etymology of the word "escort protein" is derived from the Latin word "ex" meaning "out" and "scortum" meaning "hide" or "shield". The term "escort" is used metaphorically to describe the role of these proteins in transporting and guiding other molecules within a cell or across cell membranes. Hence, the term "escort protein" signifies its function as a protector or transporter of other molecules.
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