Definition

A type of organic compound that helps move ions through cell membranes.

Example

Ionophores are used in research to study how ions pass through cell membranes.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an ionophore?

Yeah, I think it helps transport ions across cell membranes, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how it works with things like calcium.

It really is! Science has so many cool compounds that do amazing things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ionophore is formed from "ion" (from Greek "ion", meaning going or to go) and "-phore" (from Greek "phoros", meaning bearer or carrier). The word describes a substance that carries ions across a membrane.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ion' meaning something that 'goes' and '-phore' meaning 'bearer' — an ionophore is a bearer that helps ions go across barriers.

Visually Confused Words