€ 230
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Ankyrin necklace | sterling silver
The adaptor that connects the membrane to the cytoskeleton — a structural protein that most people have never heard of, doing work they couldn't live without.
The Science of Ankyrin
Ankyrins are adaptor proteins that link integral membrane proteins — including ion channels, transporters, and cell adhesion molecules — to the spectrin-actin cytoskeleton. They contain three functional domains: a membrane-binding domain with ankyrin repeats that engage transmembrane proteins, a spectrin-binding domain, and a death domain involved in apoptosis regulation. In red blood cells, ankyrin is essential for membrane stability — mutations cause hereditary spherocytosis. In neurons, ankyrin G concentrates voltage-gated sodium channels at the axon initial segment, making it critical for action potential generation.
A Meaningful Gift for Science Lovers
A piece for cell biologists and structural biologists who appreciate the proteins no one talks about.
- For the cell biologist who works with cytoskeletal proteins or membrane organisation
- For a haematologist or neuroscientist who knows ankyrin's role in their system
- For a biochemistry student who appreciates the underappreciated
- As a conversation piece — for anyone who can explain ankyrin at a dinner table
Comes in a gift box. Free worldwide shipping.
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FAQ
Q: What do you give a cell biologist who understands how cells hold themselves together?
A: Ankyrin. These adaptor proteins link membrane proteins like spectrin to the actin cytoskeleton, creating the meshwork that gives cells their shape and mechanical stability. A cell biologist, structural biologist, or anyone who works on protein interactions will recognise this immediately. Comes ready-to-gift and ships free worldwide via DHL Express in 1-5 business days.
Q: Why is ankyrin's repeat structure important?
A: Ankyrin contains 24 ankyrin repeats, a modular protein domain that has appeared across biology for binding and signalling. This repeat structure allows ankyrin to interact with dozens of different membrane proteins while maintaining specificity. Mutations in ankyrin cause hereditary spherocytosis because the membrane loses its structural connection to the cytoskeleton.
Q: What are the size and material?
A: 36 mm pendant in 925 sterling silver on a 45 cm chain with a 5 cm extender. Nickel-free and hypoallergenic. All import duties and taxes are covered by Science Jewelry 18:24, so no customs surprises.
Q: Is there a gold version?
A: This ankyrin is available in sterling silver. For a gold vermeil version or custom options, please contact us or visit our custom design service at https://sciencejewelry1824.shop/pages/science-jewelry-atelier. All jewelry is covered by a 30-day Love It or Return It policy.
Cellular Biology
Step into the fascinating world of cellular biology through our unique jewelry designs. These pieces serve as wearable reflections of life's microscopic wonders, capturing the aesthetics of DNA strands, cellular formations, and more. Far from simple adornments, they spark dialogue and honor the captivating complexities found within biological research. Merging scientific accuracy with artistic flair, each creation offers a tactile experience that bridges the gap between scientific inquiry and aesthetic appreciation.
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