Alpha Crystallin - Function

Function

The main function of crystallins at least in the lens of the eye is probably to increase the refractive index while not obstructing light. However, this is not their only function. It is becoming increasingly clear that crystallins may have several metabolic and regulatory functions, both within the lens and in other parts of the body. More proteins containing βγ-crystallin domains have now been characterized as calcium binding proteins with Greek key motif as a novel calcium-binding motif.

Read more about this topic:  Alpha Crystallin

Famous quotes containing the word function:

    Think of the tools in a tool-box: there is a hammer, pliers, a saw, a screwdriver, a rule, a glue-pot, nails and screws.—The function of words are as diverse as the functions of these objects.
    Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889–1951)

    ... the function of art is to do more than tell it like it is—it’s to imagine what is possible.
    bell hooks (b. c. 1955)

    To make us feel small in the right way is a function of art; men can only make us feel small in the wrong way.
    —E.M. (Edward Morgan)