luciferin

(-ər in)

noun

a substance in luminescent organisms, as fireflies, that produces light by combining with oxygen in the presence of luciferase

Origin: L lucifer (see Lucifer) + -in

See luciferin in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
A chemical substance present in the cells of bioluminescent organisms, such as fireflies, that produces an almost heatless, bluish-green light when oxidized under the catalytic effects of luciferase and ATP.

Origin:

Origin: Latin lūcifer, light-bringing; see lucifer 

Origin: + -in

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