porphyrin


por·phy·rin

noun \ˈpr-fə-rən\

Definition of PORPHYRIN

: any of various compounds with a macrocyclic structure that consists essentially of four pyrrole rings joined by four =CH− groups; especially : one (as chlorophyll or hemoglobin) containing a central metal atom and usually exhibiting biological activity

Origin of PORPHYRIN

International Scientific Vocabulary, from Greek porphyra purple
First Known Use: 1910

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