Efflux
Efflux
Efflux (/ɛˈflʌks/) is a term used in biology and biochemistry to describe the active, energy-dependent mechanism that cells use to expel various substances out of the cell.
Etymology
The term "efflux" originates from the Latin word "effluxus", which means "to flow out".
Definition
Efflux is a process that is used by all cell types and across all organisms. It is a primary active transport system, which means it uses ATP directly to pump substances out of the cell. This process is crucial for the cell's ability to manage its internal environment and protect itself from harmful substances.
Related Terms
- Efflux pump: A protein that facilitates the efflux process. These pumps are often associated with antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
- Active transport: The process by which cells move substances against a concentration gradient. Efflux is a type of active transport.
- ATP: Adenosine triphosphate, the energy currency of the cell. ATP is used directly in the efflux process.
- Antibiotic resistance: A phenomenon where bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics. Efflux pumps play a significant role in this process.
See Also
- Influx: The process of substances entering the cell, often considered the opposite of efflux.
- Passive transport: The process of moving substances along a concentration gradient, which does not require energy.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Efflux
- Wikipedia's article - Efflux
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