ionophore

noun

ion·​o·​phore ī-ˈä-nə-ˌfȯr How to pronounce ionophore (audio)
: a compound that facilitates transmission of an ion (as of calcium) across a lipid barrier (as in a cell membrane) by combining with the ion or by increasing the permeability of the barrier to it

Examples of ionophore in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The coating for the ion-selective membrane is a standard polymer—like the plastic used to make plumbing pipes—through which ions have great difficulty penetrating, along with a special ionophore molecule that allows the passage of only one type of ion. — IEEE Spectrum, 22 Oct. 2014 Quercetin is an ionophore, a fat-soluble substance that assists zinc in this process and increases zinc concentration within cells. — Allison Futterman, Discover Magazine, 6 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

ion + -o- + -phore

First Known Use

circa 1955, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ionophore was circa 1955

Rhymes for ionophore

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ionophore
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Cite this Entry

“Ionophore.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ionophore. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

ionophore

noun
ion·​o·​phore ī-ˈän-ə-ˌfō(ə)r, -ˌfȯ(ə)r How to pronounce ionophore (audio)
: a compound that facilitates transmission of an ion (as of calcium) across a lipid barrier (as in a plasma membrane) by combining with the ion or by increasing the permeability of the barrier to it
ionophorous
ī-ə-ˈnäf-ə-rəs How to pronounce ionophore (audio)
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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