Definitions

1. noun

A chemical substance that increases the permeability of a cell membrane to ions, often used as a tool in biophysical research or to kill bacteria.

“The scientists used an ionophore to study the transport of calcium ions across the cell membrane.”

2. noun

A molecule that can transport ions across a cell membrane, often used in biological research or as a potential therapeutic agent.

“The researchers discovered a new ionophore that could selectively transport potassium ions across the cell membrane.”