Definition

A type of enzyme that helps break down proteins and is activated by calcium ions.

Example

Calpain plays a crucial role in various cellular processes by regulating protein degradation.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of calpain?

I think I read about it in a biology article once.

Yeah, it's an enzyme that breaks down proteins, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how it's regulated by calcium ions.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Calpain is derived from "calcium" (from Latin "calx", meaning lime or calcium) and "pain" (from the French "pain", meaning bread). The term refers to a family of calcium-dependent cysteine proteases, which are enzymes that require calcium to function, metaphorically linking the concept of calcium to the 'bread' of life in biological processes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'calcium' as a key ingredient that helps these enzymes work, just like bread is a staple in many diets. This helps you remember that calpain is an enzyme that relies on calcium.

Visually Confused Words