How Do You Spell PARATOPE?

Pronunciation: [pˈaɹətˌə͡ʊp] (IPA)

The word "Paratope" is often misspelled due to its complicated pronunciation. The correct spelling is /ˈpærətoʊp/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound and emphasis is placed on the second syllable. The "t" is pronounced with a "tuh" sound and the "o" is pronounced with a long "o" sound. The final syllable is pronounced with a "p" sound followed by a short "oh" sound. This term refers to a specific portion of an antibody that recognizes and binds to antigens.

PARATOPE Meaning and Definition

  1. Paratope is a term used in immunology and biochemistry to refer to a specific region on the surface of an antibody molecule that binds to an antigen. An antibody, also known as an immunoglobulin, is a large Y-shaped protein produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances, such as bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens.

    The paratope is located within the variable region of the antibody molecule, which is responsible for the antibody's specificity in recognizing and binding to a particular antigen. It consists of a unique sequence of amino acids that forms a three-dimensional structure capable of interacting with the antigen.

    The paratope and its corresponding antigen-binding region on the antigen, called the epitope, have a complementary shape and charge distribution, allowing them to fit together like a lock and key. This binding interaction is highly specific, ensuring that the antibody only targets and neutralizes the specific antigen that triggered its production.

    The paratope and epitope recognition is crucial for the immune system's ability to mount an effective response against foreign invaders. When an antibody binds to an antigen, it can trigger a cascade of immune responses, including activation of other immune cells and the destruction and removal of the targeted pathogen.

    In summary, the paratope is the binding site on an antibody molecule that interacts with a specific epitope on an antigen, allowing the immune system to identify and eliminate foreign substances.

Common Misspellings for PARATOPE

  • oaratope
  • laratope
  • -aratope
  • 0aratope
  • pzratope
  • psratope
  • pwratope
  • pqratope
  • paeatope
  • padatope
  • pafatope
  • patatope
  • pa5atope
  • pa4atope
  • parztope
  • parstope
  • parwtope
  • parqtope
  • pararope
  • parafope

Etymology of PARATOPE

The word "paratope" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "para" meaning beside or beside, and "topos" meaning place. In immunology, a paratope is the specific region of an antibody molecule that binds to an antigen. So, the word "paratope" literally means "beside the place" referring to the region of the antibody molecule beside the region where the binding occurs.

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: