Zymogen
Zymogen
Zymogen (pronounced: /ˈzaɪmədʒən/), also known as a proenzyme, is an inactive precursor of an enzyme. The term originates from the Greek words "zymē" meaning leaven and "gen" meaning producing.
Etymology
The term "Zymogen" is derived from the Greek words "zymē" which means leaven, and "gen" which means producing. This term was first used in the late 19th century to describe substances in organisms that produce enzymes.
Function
Zymogens are synthesized and secreted in an inactive form by the cell. They are then transported to another part of the body, where they are activated to perform their function. This activation usually involves the cleavage of the zymogen molecule by another enzyme, which results in a conformational change that activates the enzyme's catalytic site.
Examples
Some examples of zymogens include pepsinogen, which is activated to form pepsin, and trypsinogen, which is activated to form trypsin. These zymogens play crucial roles in the process of digestion.
Related Terms
- Enzyme: A protein that catalyzes a specific biochemical reaction.
- Protein: A large molecule composed of one or more chains of amino acids in a specific order.
- Digestion: The process by which food is broken down into simple chemical compounds that can be absorbed and used as nutrients or eliminated by the body.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Zymogen
- Wikipedia's article - Zymogen
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