CultureAugust 10, 2026
antitrypsin
an-tee-TRIP-sin
Definition
A type of protein (enzyme inhibitor) in the body that protects tissues from damage by regulating certain other enzymes; deficiency in this protein is associated with specific liver and lung diseases.
Etymology
The word is a compound of the prefix 'anti-' (against) and 'trypsin' (a digestive enzyme). 'Trypsin' itself comes from the Greek 'tripsis' meaning 'a rubbing' or 'friction', referring to the process of crushing or grinding the pancreas to extract the enzyme.
In the news
The article lists Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency under Hepatology, highlighting it as a specific condition where this protective protein is lacking, leading to potential health complications.
AERS Subtypes Show Distinct Genetic Architecture in MDD
Read the full article ↗HCPLive