Cyanophycin

Definition

Cyanophycin is a nitrogen-rich polymer produced by cyanobacteria and certain other bacteria, primarily as a storage compound. It consists of two amino acids, arginine and aspartic acid.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cyanophycin serves as a reserve of nitrogen and carbon for the organisms that produce it.
2. It was first discovered in cyanobacteria, hence the name.
3. Cyanophycin granules are visible under a microscope within the cytoplasm of these bacteria.
4. The polymer is synthesized by the enzyme cyanophycin synthetase.
5. Upon environmental stress or nutrient deprivation, cyanophycin can be degraded to release stored amino acids.

Related terms

Cyanobacteria:

Photosynthetic bacteria known for producing oxygen and capable of nitrogen fixation.

Nitrogen Fixation:

The process by which certain organisms convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by living organisms.

Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB):

Another type of bacterial storage polymer used to store carbon and energy.