Hydroxyproline (Noun)
Meaning
A crystalline amino acid obtained from gelatin or collagen.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The discovery of hydroxyproline was a significant breakthrough in understanding the structure and function of collagen.
- Hydroxyproline is synthesized by the enzymatic hydroxylation of proline residues in the nascent collagen chains.
- Gelatin, a product of collagen breakdown, is a rich source of hydroxyproline, which can be isolated and purified through various techniques.
- The ring structure of hydroxyproline confers unique properties on collagen, allowing it to form triple helices that provide strength and stability to connective tissues.
- Hydroxyproline analysis is often used as a biochemical marker for collagen metabolism and has applications in research on osteoporosis and other diseases.