nitrogenase
Definition
Noun: * An enzyme found in certain nitrogen-fixing microorganisms (such as bacteria) that catalyzes the reduction of atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into ammonia (NH₃). This process is essential for converting inert nitrogen gas into a biologically usable form.
Usage
- Nitrogenase is the key enzyme responsible for biological nitrogen fixation.
- The activity of nitrogenase is highly sensitive to oxygen.
- Scientists are studying the structure of nitrogenase to understand how it breaks the strong triple bond of N₂.
Advanced Usage
- Nitrogenase complex: Refers to the complete enzyme system, which typically includes multiple protein components (e.g., the Fe protein and the MoFe protein).
- Nitrogenase activity: A measurement of the rate at which the enzyme converts nitrogen to ammonia.
Variants and Related Words
- Nitrogen fixation (n.): The overall process of converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia or related compounds, which is catalyzed by nitrogenase.
- Dinitrogenase (n.): A term sometimes used specifically for the component of the nitrogenase complex that binds and reduces N₂.
Synonyms
- Nitrogen-fixing enzyme: A descriptive synonym highlighting its primary function.
Related Phrases
- To catalyze nitrogen fixation: This is the primary action performed by nitrogenase.
- The bacterium's nitrogenase catalyzes nitrogen fixation in the root nodules.
Noun
-
an enzyme of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms that catalyzes the conversion of nitrogen to ammonia
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