MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDE Meaning and
Definition
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A mucopolysaccharide is a complex carbohydrate compound that is composed of long chains of repeating sugar units, known as polysaccharides, with the addition of sulfate groups. These compounds are a type of glycosaminoglycan (GAG), which are essential components of connective tissues in the body. Mucopolysaccharides are primarily found in the extracellular matrix and play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and function of various tissues and organs.
Mucopolysaccharides are known for their gel-like consistency and viscosity, which provides lubrication and shock absorption properties to tissues such as cartilage, tendons, and synovial fluid. They also contribute to the resilience and flexibility of these tissues, enabling them to withstand mechanical stress.
These compounds are involved in numerous biological processes, including cell adhesion, signaling, and proliferation. They are also responsible for regulating the transportation of molecules within the extracellular matrix.
Mucopolysaccharide abnormalities or deficiencies can lead to various genetic disorders known as mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS). These disorders are characterized by the accumulation of undegraded mucopolysaccharides in cells, tissues, and organs, resulting in progressive and often severe physical and neurological impairments.
In summary, mucopolysaccharides are complex carbohydrate compounds essential for maintaining healthy connective tissues, providing mechanical support, elasticity, and lubrication. Their abnormalities can lead to significant medical conditions and play a critical role in understanding and diagnosing various genetic disorders.
Common Misspellings for MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDE
- nucopolysaccharide
- kucopolysaccharide
- jucopolysaccharide
- mycopolysaccharide
- mhcopolysaccharide
- mjcopolysaccharide
- micopolysaccharide
- m8copolysaccharide
- m7copolysaccharide
- muxopolysaccharide
- muvopolysaccharide
- mufopolysaccharide
- mudopolysaccharide
- mucipolysaccharide
- muckpolysaccharide
- muclpolysaccharide
- mucppolysaccharide
- muc0polysaccharide
- muc9polysaccharide
Etymology of MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDE
The word "mucopolysaccharide" is derived from three main components: "muco-", "poly-", and "saccharide".
1. "Muco-" is derived from the Latin word "mucus", meaning mucus or slime. In medical terminology, "muco-" is commonly used to refer to mucous tissue or substances.
2. "Poly-" is derived from the Greek word "polus", which means many or multiple. "Poly-" is used as a prefix in scientific and medical terminology to indicate a large number, multiple parts, or complexity.
3. "Saccharide" is derived from the Greek word "sákkharon", meaning sugar. It refers to a type of organic compound that serves as a building block of carbohydrates.
Similar spelling word for MUCOPOLYSACCHARIDE
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