hemocyanin

[ hee-muh-sahy-uh-nin, hem-uh- ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. a blue, copper-containing respiratory pigment in the plasma of many invertebrates.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hemocyanin¹

First recorded in 1835–45; hemo- + cyan- ¹ + -in ²

Example Sentences

Their blood gets that blue-green tint from hemocyanin, which they use instead of hemoglobin to carry oxygen.

From New York Times

Scientists with the company have found that hemocyanin, a protein in the fluid, works as a powerful stimulant for the immune systems, Bayer said.

From Seattle Times

Scientists with the company have found that hemocyanin, a protein in the fluid, works as a powerful stimulant for the immune systems, Bayer said.

From Washington Times

Insects, crustaceans and other arthropods use hemocyanin, a bluish copper-based pigment.

From Scientific American

Hemocyanin is less efficient than hemoglobin at grabbing oxygen because it, like the other hemoglobin alternatives, usually does not bond collaboratively.

From Scientific American