An enzyme that removes phosphate groups from molecules, playing crucial roles in cellular metabolism and signaling.
From phosphate (Greek phosphoros 'light-bearing') plus -ase (enzyme suffix from diastase, Greek diastasis 'separation'). The term emerged in early 20th century biochemistry as scientists discovered these important regulatory enzymes.
Phosphatases are like cellular 'off switches' that counteract kinases (the 'on switches'), creating the binary system that controls virtually every cellular process. The discovery of these enzymes revolutionized our understanding of how cells regulate themselves, leading to targeted cancer therapies.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.