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supercomplex

supercomplex

8.5
A group of proteins that join to work together in a cell
  • noun
  • /ˈsuːpərˌkɒmplɛks/
  • Specialized
translation icon : supercomplejo
  • Researchers are studying how the supercomplex assembles and its role in cellular respiration.

Examples

  • Scientists discovered a new supercomplex in the mitochondria that increases energy production.

  • The stability of the supercomplex allows multiple enzymes to work together efficiently.

  • The supercomplex is vital.

  • This supercomplex is crucial!

  • Scientists discovered a new supercomplex in the mitochondria that increases energy production.

  • The stability of the supercomplex allows multiple enzymes to work together efficiently.

  • Researchers are studying how the supercomplex assembles and its role in cellular respiration.

How Complex

supercomplex
  • Specialized
8.5
protein molecule
  • Specialized
1 3.9
complex
  • Specialized
19 7.4

Surface Forms

supercomplex singular

Morphology

supercomplex = complex (semi-transparent) = super + complex

Formed from 'complex' with 'super-' indicating a higher-order or larger assembly; the biological, domain-specific sense may not be obvious to general learners.

Etymology

Supercomplex combines super- meaning 'above' or 'very' and complex meaning 'woven together' or 'made of many parts'. In biology this is a good image: a supercomplex is like several protein complexes joined into one large unit that works together.