dynein

noun

dy·​nein ˈdī-ˌnēn 

-ˌnē-ən

: an ATPase that is associated especially with microtubules involved in the movement of cellular organelles and structures (such as cilia, flagella, and chromosomes)

Word History

Etymology

dyne + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1965, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

dynein

noun

dy·​nein ˈdī-ˌnēn  -ˌnē-ən 

: an ATPase that cross-links adjacent microtubules and that by controlling their relative sliding motion regulates the movement of cellular organelles and structures (as the beating of cilia and flagella and the movement of chromosomes to the poles of the spindle)