canavalin

/kænæˈvælɪn/

Definitions

1. noun

A protein or peptide that inhibits the activity of calmodulin, a calcium-binding protein.

“The researcher studied the effects of canavalin on muscle contraction in vitro.”

2. noun

A lectin found in jack bean that binds to carbohydrates and inhibits cell growth.

“The biologist isolated canavalin from the jack bean and used it to study cell membrane interactions.”

Synonyms

  • calmodulin inhibitor
  • lectin

Antonyms

  • calmodulin activator
  • cell growth promoter