Definition
Phosphorylation is a biochemical process where a phosphate group is added to a molecule, such as a protein. This is an essential mechanism in cellular function and regulation.
Expanded Explanation
A phosphate group is added to a protein in a biochemical process. This change alters the protein’s function. It’s a critical mechanism in governing cellular activities. It can either activate or deactivate proteins, influencing cell behavior. Maintaining a balance with dephosphorylation, the reverse process, ensures normal cell function.
Importance
This process plays a crucial role in signal transduction, protein regulation, and metabolic reactions. Adding a phosphate group can alter a protein’s structure and function. Consequently, it impacts cell behavior and responses.
In cellular biology, the discussion often involves enzymes and proteins. This cornerstone process plays a key role in cell signalling. Biochemical reactions transmit signals typically involving protein activation through this process.
Examples
- Example 1: In cell signaling, a protein might be phosphorylated to activate it, triggering a cascade of reactions that lead to a specific cellular response.
- Example 2: In metabolic reactions, the phosphorylation of glucose during glycolysis is a critical step in energy production.
Understanding Phosphorylation
A common misconception is that this process only activates proteins. In reality, it can also deactivate proteins. Moreover, it alters their function, depending on the process and protein involved.
Related Glossary Terms
- ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): ATP is the molecule that provides the phosphate group during phosphorylation.
- Kinase: Kinases are enzymes that catalyze the phosphorylation process.
Visual and Reading Aids
External Resources
- Oxidative phosphorylation – Khan Academy
- NatD promotes lung cancer progression by preventing histone H4 serine phosphorylation to activate Slug expression – Nature
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