Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
phosphorylation
noun
/ˌfɑːs.fər.ɪˈleɪ.ʃən/
Definition
The process of adding a phosphate group to a molecule, typically a protein or a lipid.
Examples
- Phosphorylation of proteins can activate or deactivate their functions.
- During metabolism, glucose is phosphorylated to form glucose-6-phosphate.
- Phosphorylation cascades are essential in cellular signaling.
Meaning
Phosphorylation plays a critical role in regulating biological functions, such as signal transduction, metabolic pathways, and cell division.
Synonyms
- phosphate addition
- phosphate transfer
