ac·tin ( k t n)n. A protein found in muscle that together with myosin functions in muscle contraction. [Latin  ctus, motion; see act + -in.] |
actin [ˈæktɪn]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biochemistry) a protein that participates in many kinds of cell movement, including muscle contraction, during which it interacts with filaments of a second protein, myosin
[from act + -in]
| actin (ktn) A protein found in all eukaryotic cells, forming filaments that make up a main component of the cell's supporting matrix or cytoskeleton. Actin and the protein myosin together make up the contractile units (called sarcomeres) of skeletal muscle fibers. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | actin - one of the proteins into which actomyosin can be split; can exist in either a globular or a fibrous form actomyosin - a protein complex in muscle fibers; composed of myosin and actin; shortens when stimulated and causes muscle contractions simple protein - a protein that yields only amino acids when hydrolyzed |
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