porphyrin

/ˈpɔɹfəɹɪn/

porphyrin

English Noun

Definition

Any of a class of heterocyclic compounds containing pyrrole rings arranged in a square or other similar shape; they are important in biochemistry in a form with a metal atom in the central cavity (hemoglobin with iron, chlorophyll with magnesium, etc.).

Etymology

From German Porphyrin, shortened from Hämatoporphyrin (“haematoporphyrin”).