Storage proteins
- Pronunciation
- /STOR-ij PROH-tee-enz/
- Category
- Physiology
- Singular
- Storage protein
- Plural
- Storage proteins
Definition
Proteins that are synthesized during periods of high nutrient availability, then stored to provide amino acids when needed during times of high demand.
Etymology
From the Latin word 'storea' (meaning storehouse) and Greek word 'proteios' (meaning primary).
Example
Storage proteins are essential for insect development because they allow larvae to store nutrients during periods of abundant food, enabling them to survive metamorphosis.