Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

allostery

Noun

/ˌæl.əˈstɛr.i/

Definition

Allostery is a regulatory mechanism in biology where the binding of a molecule to a protein affects the function of that protein at a different site.

Examples

The allostery of hemoglobin allows it to efficiently transport oxygen in the blood.
Changes in allostery can lead to significant biological consequences in enzyme activity.

Meaning

It describes how a protein’s activity can be modified by the binding of an effector molecule, leading to a change in its shape, which can either enhance or inhibit its function.