NEPRILYSIN Meaning and
Definition
-
Neprilysin is a term used in the field of biochemistry and pharmacology to refer to a specific enzyme, also known as neutral endopeptidase 24.11 (NEP), that is primarily found in the plasma membrane of various cells in the human body, particularly in the kidneys and the endothelial cells. It belongs to a class of enzymes called metallopeptidases, and it plays a crucial role in the degradation and regulation of numerous peptides and proteins involved in various physiological processes.
Neprilysin functions by cleaving and breaking down peptide bonds within these molecules, thus promoting their degradation and subsequent elimination from the body. Its activity is particularly important in the regulation of substances such as atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), substance P, and enkephalins, which are involved in the control of blood pressure, inflammation, and pain perception among other functions.
The significance of neprilysin extends beyond its enzymatic activity, as it has been identified as a target for therapeutic intervention in various diseases. For instance, in the field of cardiovascular medicine, neprilysin inhibitors have been developed as drugs to treat heart failure. By inhibiting neprilysin's activity, these medications allow for increased levels of certain peptides, such as natriuretic peptides, which can help reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure.
Neprilysin has also been implicated in neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, as it contributes to the breakdown and clearance of amyloid-beta peptides in the brain. Thus, neprilysin inhibitors have also been explored as potential therapies for this neurodegenerative disorder.
Common Misspellings for NEPRILYSIN
- beprilysin
- meprilysin
- jeprilysin
- heprilysin
- nwprilysin
- nsprilysin
- ndprilysin
- nrprilysin
- n4prilysin
- n3prilysin
- neorilysin
- nelrilysin
- ne-rilysin
- ne0rilysin
- nepeilysin
- nepdilysin
- nepfilysin
- neptilysin
- nep5ilysin
- nep4ilysin
Etymology of NEPRILYSIN
The word "Neprilysin" has a scientific and medical origin. Its etymology can be broken down as follows:
1. The prefix "ne-" comes from the Greek word "neos", meaning "new" or "recent". It is commonly used in scientific terms to indicate something novel or modern.
2. The word element "prilysin" derives from the enzyme "neutral endopeptidase" or "neprilysin". The suffix "-in" indicates that it is an enzyme or protein.
Therefore, the term "Neprilysin" refers to a newer or relatively recent enzyme called "neutral endopeptidase" that is involved in the breakdown of peptides in the body.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
