Lexic.us

Definition of Actin

1. Noun. One of the proteins into which actomyosin can be split; can exist in either a globular or a fibrous form.

Definition of Actin

1. Noun. (protein uncountable) A globular structural protein that polymerizes in a helical fashion to form an actin filament (or microfilament). ¹

2. Noun. (protein countable) One of the six isoforms of actin. ¹

¹ Source: wiktionary.com

Definition of Actin

1. a protein in muscle tissue [n -S]

Medical Definition of Actin

1. A filamentous proteins (42 kD) involved in muscle contraction in both smooth and striated muscle and also serves as an important structural molecule for the cytoskeleton of many eukaryotic cells. It is the main constituent of the thin filaments of muscle fibres. The filaments (known also as filamentous or f-actin) can be dissociated into their globular subunits; each subunit is composed of a single polypeptide 375 amino acids long. This is known as globular or g-actin. In conjunction with myosin, actin is responsible for the contraction and relaxation of muscle. See: myosin. (25 Jun 1999)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Actin

Literary usage of Actin

Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:

1. A Lifelong Passion: Nicholas and Alexandra: Their Own Story by Andrei Maylunas (2005)
"The control of cytoskeletal actin and exocytosis was examined in intact and ... Cytoskeletal actin was assayed by determining the actin content of ..."

2. Proceedings of the Society for Experimental Biology and Medicine (1903)
"In gels a, d, and f, 10 fig of murine skeletal muscle actin (o-actin) was mixed as an internal standard with the various homogenates. ..."

3. Samantha Vs. Josiah: Being the Story of a Borrowed Automobile and what Came by Marietta Holley (1906)
"... CHAPTER XIII "She Wuz Big Feelin' and actin'" "He worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth." A WELL known writer of religious music, ..."

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