PLANT STEROID Meaning and
Definition
-
Plant steroid refers to a type of organic compound found naturally in plants that shares a similar structural framework to mammalian steroids. These compounds, also known as phytosterols or plant sterols, are crucial to the basic structure and function of plants. They are characterized by a steroidal core structure composed of four fused rings, primarily consisting of three cyclohexane rings and one cyclopentane ring. Additionally, plant steroids often possess a hydrocarbon side chain attached to the ring structure.
Plant steroids play essential roles in plant growth and development, serving as precursor molecules for the synthesis of hormones such as brassinosteroids, auxins, and gibberellins. These hormones regulate various physiological processes in plants, including cell elongation, differentiation, flowering, and fruit ripening. Furthermore, plant steroids also serve as components of cell membranes, aiding in the maintenance of membrane fluidity and stability.
From a nutritional perspective, plant steroids have gained significant attention due to their potential health benefits. Consumption of phytosterols has been associated with cholesterol-lowering effects, making them valuable in managing cardiovascular diseases. Plant steroids can competitively inhibit cholesterol absorption in the intestines, thus reducing blood cholesterol levels.
Overall, plant steroids encompass a diverse group of organic compounds found in plants with important physiological functions. Their structural similarity to mammalian steroids and potential health benefits make them a subject of interest in both physiological and nutritional research.
Common Misspellings for PLANT STEROID
- olant steroid
- llant steroid
- 0lant steroid
- pkant steroid
- ppant steroid
- poant steroid
- plznt steroid
- plsnt steroid
- plwnt steroid
- plqnt steroid
- plabt steroid
- plamt steroid
- plajt steroid
- plaht steroid
- planr steroid
- planf steroid
- plang steroid
- plany steroid
- plan6 steroid
- plan5 steroid
Etymology of PLANT STEROID
The term "plant steroid" consists of two parts: "plant" and "steroid".
1. Plant: The word "plant" originated from the Latin word "planta", which means "sprout" or "shoot". This Latin term was influenced by the Old High German word "bladian", which means "to bloom" or "to flourish". Over time, "plant" came to refer to living organisms that grow in the ground, including various types of vegetation.
2. Steroid: The term "steroid" is derived from the Greek word "stērós", which means "solid" or "stiff". In the late 19th century, the German chemist Adolf Windaus coined the modern term "steroid" to describe a specific class of organic compounds with a characteristic molecular structure. It focused on the presence of a specific arrangement of carbon atoms forming four fused rings.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
