cotransport: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal / Technical / Scientific
Quick answer
What does “cotransport” mean?
The coupled transport of two different molecules or ions across a cell membrane, where the movement of one drives the movement of the other.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The coupled transport of two different molecules or ions across a cell membrane, where the movement of one drives the movement of the other.
A specific mechanism in cellular biology and biochemistry where the energy from moving one substance down its concentration gradient is used to transport another substance against its concentration gradient.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling follows standard conventions (no 'co-transport' vs. 'cotransport' regional divide).
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language, identical low-to-moderate frequency within relevant scientific fields in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “cotransport” in a Sentence
The protein cotransports X and Y.X is cotransported with Y.Cotransport of X and Y occurs.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “cotransport” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- This protein cotransports sodium ions and amino acids into the cell.
- The mechanism was found to cotransport protons and sulphate.
American English
- SGLT1 cotransports sodium and glucose in the intestinal lining.
- Researchers demonstrated that the channel could cotransport potassium and chloride ions.
adjective
British English
- The cotransport mechanism is energy-efficient.
- They identified a key cotransport protein in the renal tubule.
American English
- Sodium-glucose cotransport activity is regulated by hormones.
- The cotransport process is vital for nutrient absorption.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in specialised university courses and research in biology, biochemistry, and medicine.
Everyday
Never used.
Technical
Core term in cellular physiology, pharmacology, and molecular biology research papers and textbooks.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “cotransport”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “cotransport”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “cotransport”
- Misspelling as 'co-transport' (though sometimes accepted).
- Using it as a general synonym for 'transport'.
- Confusing 'cotransport' (secondary active) with 'active transport' (primary, uses ATP directly).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a type of secondary active transport. Primary active transport directly uses ATP, while cotransport uses the gradient created by primary active transport.
Both are types of cotransport. Symport moves both substances in the same direction. Antiport (or exchange) moves them in opposite directions across the membrane.
Almost exclusively in advanced biology, biochemistry, physiology, or pharmacology textbooks, research articles, and university courses.
Yes, in technical writing (e.g., 'The protein cotransports X and Y'). In general language, it is almost never used.
The coupled transport of two different molecules or ions across a cell membrane, where the movement of one drives the movement of the other.
Cotransport is usually formal / technical / scientific in register.
Cotransport: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkəʊˈtræn.spɔːt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkoʊˈtræn.spɔːrt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a COuple on TRANSPORT: one (ion) has a free ticket downhill and uses that energy to buy a ticket for their partner (glucose) to go uphill.
Conceptual Metaphor
A SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP or a POWER COUPLE: one entity's natural movement provides the energy/leverage for the other's movement.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary energy source for cotransport?