Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
homologous protein
noun
/həˈmɒl.ə.ɡəs ˈproʊ.tiːn/
Definition
Proteins that share a common ancestry and have similar sequences or structures, often performing similar functions in different organisms.
Examples
- Hemoglobin in humans and myoglobin in muscle cells are examples of homologous proteins.
- The study of homologous proteins can provide insights into evolutionary biology.
Meaning
Homologous proteins arise from a common ancestral protein and can be found in different species, reflecting evolutionary relationships.
Synonyms
- Related protein
- Conserved protein
- Analogous protein
