Word: riboswitch
Part of speech: Noun
Syllables: ri
bos
witch
Definition: A segment within the leading end of a messenger RNA transcript that is able to gauge the cell's need for the protein encoded by the rest of the message, then to rearrange its shape to control whether that protein is manufactured
Morphemes:
Affix: ribo-
Language: en
PoS: Prefix
Meaning: ribose; a pentose sugar important as a component of ribonucleic acid
Affix: switch
Language: en
PoS: Noun
Meaning: A mechanism within DNA that activates or deactivates a gene.