DYSTROPHIN Meaning and
Definition
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Dystrophin is a noun that refers to a protein found in the human body, specifically in muscle cells. It is encoded by the DMD (Duchenne muscular dystrophy) gene located on the X chromosome. This protein plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and stability of muscle fibers.
The primary function of dystrophin is to act as a structural support within muscle cells, linking the interior of the muscle fibers to the extracellular matrix that surrounds them. It forms an essential component of a complex protein assembly called the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex (DGC), which helps to reinforce the muscle cell membrane during contractions and relaxations.
In individuals with certain genetic mutations, there can be a deficiency or absence of dystrophin production. This results in a group of muscle-wasting disorders known as muscular dystrophies, with Duchenne muscular dystrophy being the most common and severe form.
The absence of dystrophin compromises the stability and strength of muscle fibers, leading to progressive muscle weakness and eventual degeneration. This ultimately impairs mobility and can affect various body systems, such as the heart and respiratory system.
The study of dystrophin and its related disorders is important for understanding muscle development and function. Researchers are exploring various therapeutic avenues, including gene therapy and stem cell-based approaches, to restore dystrophin production or compensate for its absence in individuals affected by muscular dystrophy.
Common Misspellings for DYSTROPHIN
- systrophin
- xystrophin
- cystrophin
- fystrophin
- rystrophin
- eystrophin
- dtstrophin
- dgstrophin
- dhstrophin
- dustrophin
- d7strophin
- d6strophin
- dyatrophin
- dyztrophin
- dyxtrophin
- dydtrophin
- dyetrophin
- dywtrophin
- dysrrophin
- dysfrophin
Etymology of DYSTROPHIN
The word "dystrophin" is derived from the English word "dystrophy", which comes from the Greek "dustrophos". "Dustrophos" combines "dus", meaning "bad" or "difficult", and "trophe", meaning "nourishment" or "growth". Therefore, "dustrophos" implies a difficulty or impairment in growth or nourishment. The suffix "-in" in "dystrophin" is added to denote a protein. Hence, "dystrophin" refers to a protein that is associated with muscular dystrophy, a group of genetic disorders causing muscle weakness and degeneration.
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