CARBONIC ANHYDRASE Meaning and
Definition
-
Carbonic anhydrase is an enzyme that facilitates the interconversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbonic acid (H2CO3) through the acceleration of their hydration and dehydration reactions. It is essential for maintaining acid-base balance and regulating pH levels in various biological systems.
The enzyme carbonic anhydrase is found abundantly in red blood cells, as well as the kidneys, lungs, and various other tissues. It plays a crucial role in many physiological processes, such as gas exchange, respiration, and the transportation of CO2 in the bloodstream. Carbonic anhydrase catalyzes the hydration of carbon dioxide into carbonic acid, which then dissociates into bicarbonate ions (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+). This reaction is pivotal for facilitating the transport of carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs for elimination.
Moreover, carbonic anhydrase is involved in the regulation of acid-base balance in the kidneys. In the renal tubules, it facilitates the conversion of bicarbonate ions back into carbon dioxide, allowing for their reabsorption or excretion depending on the body's needs.
The importance of carbonic anhydrase extends beyond physiological processes, as it has also been a target for therapeutic interventions. Inhibitors of this enzyme have been developed in the treatment of glaucoma, epilepsy, and other conditions associated with abnormal bicarbonate and acid-base regulation.
In summary, carbonic anhydrase is an enzyme that accelerates the interconversion of carbon dioxide and carbonic acid, playing a vital role in maintaining acid-base balance, regulating pH levels, and facilitating various physiological processes in the body.
Common Misspellings for CARBONIC ANHYDRASE
- xarbonic anhydrase
- varbonic anhydrase
- farbonic anhydrase
- darbonic anhydrase
- czrbonic anhydrase
- csrbonic anhydrase
- cwrbonic anhydrase
- cqrbonic anhydrase
- caebonic anhydrase
- cadbonic anhydrase
- cafbonic anhydrase
- catbonic anhydrase
- ca5bonic anhydrase
- ca4bonic anhydrase
- carvonic anhydrase
- carnonic anhydrase
- carhonic anhydrase
- cargonic anhydrase
- carbinic anhydrase
- carbknic anhydrase
Etymology of CARBONIC ANHYDRASE
The word "Carbonic Anhydrase" has its etymology rooted in the Greek language. "Carbonic" comes from the Greek word "karbon", which means "coal" or "carbon". "Anhydrase" is derived from the Greek word "anhydros", meaning "without water".
The term "Carbonic Anhydrase" was coined to describe an enzyme that catalyzes the interconversion of carbon dioxide and water into carbonic acid, which then dissociates into bicarbonate ions. This enzyme is crucial for various physiological processes, like regulating acid-base balance, respiration, and fluid secretion.
The name "Carbonic Anhydrase" was given to this enzyme as it plays a vital role in maintaining the equilibrium between carbon dioxide and bicarbonate ions.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
