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transferase

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˈtrænsfərˌeɪs//

KK: /trænsfərˌeɪs/

noun
Definition

A type of enzyme that helps move a chemical group from one molecule to another, like a phosphate or amine.


Example

Transferases play a crucial role in many biochemical reactions by facilitating the transfer of functional groups.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of transferase enzymes?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think they help move chemical groups between molecules, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! They play a big role in many biochemical reactions.
Sloth B
That's fascinating! I love how complex biology can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
enzyme
catalyst
protease
Antonyms
inhibitor
blocker
suppressor
Root Explanation

Transferase → It is formed from "trans-" (meaning across) and "ferre" (meaning to carry). The word refers to an enzyme that carries a functional group from one molecule to another, effectively transferring it across.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'carries' ('ferre') something 'across' ('trans-') — that's why transferase refers to an enzyme that transfers groups between molecules.

Visually Confused Words
untransferable
intransferable
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