Definition

A type of enzyme found in certain organisms that helps produce light by facilitating a chemical reaction involving luciferin and ATP.

Example

Researchers are studying luciferase to understand how bioluminescent organisms create light.

Conversation

Have you heard about luciferase?

Yeah, it's that enzyme that makes fireflies glow, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how it catalyzes light production.

I know! Science can be so cool when you think about things like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Luciferase → It is formed from "lucifer" (from Latin *lucifer*, meaning light-bringer) and "-ase" (a suffix used in biochemistry to denote enzymes). The word "luciferase" refers to an enzyme that produces light, hence the light-bringer.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light-bringer' ('lucifer') and remember that 'luciferase' is an enzyme that helps produce light.

Visually Confused Words