annexin

noun

an·​nex·​in ə-ˈnek-sən 

plural annexins

: any of a family of proteins found in eukaryotes (such as mammals, birds, and plants) that bind to phospholipids in the presence of calcium

—often followed by a number usually expressed in Roman numerals to indicate type

Annexin V may play significant roles in cell physiology, including such processes as control of membrane permeability to calcium …

—William H. Strauss et al., Lancet, 15 July 2001

Word History

Etymology

blend of annex entry 1 and synexin, earlier name for an adrenal medullary protein with the properties of annexin

First Known Use

1987, in the meaning defined above

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