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ABC Transporters definitions

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  • ABC Transporter
    Integral membrane protein with ATP binding cassette motif, pumps substances against concentration gradient using ATP.
  • ATP Binding Cassette
    Structural motif found in certain transporters, enables binding and hydrolysis of ATP for active transport.
  • Primary Active Transport
    Mechanism moving molecules from low to high concentration directly using energy from ATP hydrolysis.
  • ATPase
    Enzyme family that catalyzes ATP hydrolysis, powering transport of substances across membranes.
  • Transmembrane Domain
    Protein region spanning the membrane, forms a pore for passage of molecules during transport.
  • Nucleotide Binding Domain
    Cytosolic protein region that binds and hydrolyzes ATP, driving conformational changes for transport.
  • Concentration Gradient
    Difference in substance concentration across a membrane, directionality determines transport energy requirements.
  • Multidrug Resistance
    Phenomenon where transporters expel multiple drugs, contributing to antibiotic resistance and cancer therapy challenges.
  • Antibiotic Resistance
    Ability of bacteria to withstand antibiotics, often due to transporters removing drugs from cells.
  • P-glycoprotein
    Human MDR transporter that removes anticancer drugs from tumor cells, impacting chemotherapy effectiveness.
  • Integral Membrane Protein
    Protein embedded within the membrane, essential for transport functions and cellular communication.
  • Structural Motif
    Recurring pattern in protein structure, often conferring specific functional properties like ATP binding.
  • Cytoplasm
    Cellular compartment where transporters can remove toxins and drugs, maintaining cellular homeostasis.
  • Plasma Membrane
    Cell boundary composed of lipid bilayer, site of embedded transporters facilitating substance movement.
  • Toxin
    Harmful substance that can be expelled from cells by transporters to protect cellular health.