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Protein Sorting definitions

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  • Gated Transport
    Movement of molecules between cytosol and nucleus via selective passage through a specialized pore in the nuclear envelope.
  • Transmembrane Transport
    Passage of unfolded polypeptides across organelle membranes using dedicated protein channels, followed by refolding inside.
  • Vesicle Transport
    Encapsulation of cargo within membrane-bound compartments that bud and fuse with target membranes to deliver contents.
  • Sorting Signal
    Short amino acid sequence directing a polypeptide to its correct cellular location or organelle.
  • Nuclear Pore Complex
    Large protein assembly spanning the nuclear envelope, controlling selective exchange of macromolecules.
  • Nuclear Localization Signal
    Amino acid motif recognized by import machinery, enabling entry of proteins into the nucleus.
  • Import Receptor
    Protein that binds specific localization motifs and mediates cargo passage through selective barriers.
  • GTP
    Energy-providing molecule required for active transport processes, including nuclear import.
  • Protein Translocator
    Membrane-embedded channel facilitating the movement of unfolded polypeptides into organelles.
  • Chaperone Protein
    Molecule assisting in the proper folding of polypeptides after their translocation into organelles.
  • Signal Peptidase
    Enzyme that removes targeting sequences from polypeptides once they reach their destination.
  • Transport Vesicle
    Small, membrane-bound compartment carrying proteins or molecules between cellular locations.
  • Endoplasmic Reticulum
    Organelle serving as a major entry point for proteins into the secretory pathway.
  • Golgi Apparatus
    Organelle modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for delivery to various destinations.
  • Plasma Membrane
    Cellular boundary where proteins may be delivered for secretion or membrane integration.