: a protein of muscle that together with tropomyosin forms a regulatory protein complex controlling the interaction of actin and myosin and that when combined with calcium ions permits muscular contraction

Examples of troponin 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.
Broken heart syndrome can cause an increase in a cardiac enzyme called troponin, in the blood, that is also elevated by a heart attack. Allison Aubrey, NPR, 17 Feb. 2025 Troponin is more specific and sensitive than CK, as cardiac troponin only increases when there's damage to the heart muscle. Jillian Kubala, Health, 31 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

by shortening & alteration from tropomyosin

Note: The name was apparently first used in print in a letter by the Japanese biochemist Setsuro Ebashi (1922-2006) and coworker Ayako Kodama, "Interaction of Troponin with F-Actin in the Presence of Tropomyosin," Journal of Biochemistry (Japanese Biochemical Society), vol. 59, issue 4 (April, 1966), p. 425.

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of troponin was in 1966

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Cite this Entry

“Troponin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/troponin. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

: a protein of muscle that together with tropomyosin forms a regulatory protein complex controlling the interaction of actin and myosin and that when combined with calcium ions permits muscular contraction

More from Merriam-Webster on troponin

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