variable loop
[/ˈvɛriəbəl luːp/]
nounpl: variable loops
alça variável
1. In immunology, the region of an antibody or T-cell receptor that varies in amino acid sequence among different immune cells, allowing recognition of diverse antigens
The variable loop of the antibody determines its specificity for particular antigens.
A alça variável do anticorpo determina sua especificidade para antígenos particulares.
2. In computer programming, a loop structure whose number of iterations can change based on conditional statements or variable values
The variable loop continues until the counter reaches the specified limit.
A alça variável continua até o contador atingir o limite especificado.
3. In structural biology, a flexible region connecting secondary structures in proteins
The variable loop provides flexibility to the protein structure.
A alça variável oferece flexibilidade à estrutura proteica.
This is specialized terminology primarily used in scientific and medical contexts, particularly in immunology and molecular biology. It appears in research publications, academic courses, and laboratory settings in both Brazil and the USA. The term is relatively consistent across English and Portuguese scientific communities, though Brazilian scientists may also encounter the English term directly in international publications.
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →