ARACHNOLYSIN Meaning and
Definition
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Arachnolysin is a protein toxin produced by various species of arachnids, particularly spiders. It is a class of lytic enzymes that belongs to the phospholipase D family. Arachnolysins are primarily found in spider venoms and are responsible for the cytotoxic effects observed following envenomation by spiders.
The name "arachnolysin" is derived from its origin in arachnids and its property of lysing or destroying cell membranes. The toxin acts by breaking down phospholipids, which are essential components of cell membranes, resulting in cell membrane disruption and subsequent cell death. This lytic activity contributes to the venom's effectiveness in immobilizing, paralyzing, or killing the spider's prey.
The biological effects of arachnolysins on their target organisms can vary depending on the specific venom composition and the target's physiological vulnerabilities. The effects may include tissue damage, inflammation, hemolysis (rupturing of red blood cells), and disruption of various physiological processes. In certain cases, arachnolysin toxins have been found to have potential applications in medical research, including their use as diagnostic tools or therapeutic agents.
Research on arachnolysins is ongoing, with scientists studying their molecular structures, mechanisms of action, and potential medical applications. Understanding these toxins at a molecular level can contribute to the development of targeted therapies for specific conditions, as well as expand our knowledge of the fascinating and diverse world of arachnids and their venoms.
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An hemolysin in the venom of the spider.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ARACHNOLYSIN
- zrachnolysin
- srachnolysin
- wrachnolysin
- qrachnolysin
- aeachnolysin
- adachnolysin
- afachnolysin
- atachnolysin
- a5achnolysin
- a4achnolysin
- arzchnolysin
- arschnolysin
- arwchnolysin
- arqchnolysin
- araxhnolysin
- aravhnolysin
- arafhnolysin
- aradhnolysin
- aracgnolysin
- aracbnolysin
Etymology of ARACHNOLYSIN
The word "arachnolysin" is derived from two parts: "arachno-" and "lysin".
1. "Arachno-" is derived from the Greek word "aráchnē" (ἀράχνη), which means "spider". In scientific terms, "arachno-" is often used to refer to things related to spiders or arachnids.
2. "-Lysin" is derived from the Greek word "lýsis" (λύσις), which means "dissolution" or "destruction". It originates from the verb "lýein" (λύειν), meaning "to loosen" or "to dissolve".
Combining these two parts, "arachnolysin" refers to a substance that dissolves or destroys things related to arachnids or spiders.
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