BIOLOGICAL ASSAY Meaning and
Definition
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Biological Assay refers to a scientific technique used to determine the concentration, potency, or presence of a substance by its biological effect. It involves examining the response of living organisms, cells, tissues, or enzymes to the substance being tested. Also known as bioassay, this method allows scientists to evaluate the pharmacological, physiological, toxicological, or pharmacodynamic properties of a compound.
In a biological assay, a living system is exposed to varying concentrations of the substance of interest, and the response is measured and compared to a standard. The response can be a change in cell growth, enzyme activity, hormone production, or any other measurable effect that relates to the biological function influenced by the substance being tested.
Biological assays are commonly employed in fields such as pharmaceuticals, toxicology, and environmental science. They play a crucial role in drug discovery and development, where they are used to determine the effectiveness and safety of potential treatments. Bioassays also aid in environmental monitoring, helping to assess the presence and impact of pollutants on living organisms.
These assays can be quantitative or qualitative, depending on the nature of the response being measured. Quantitative assays provide numerical data, allowing for accurate dose-response relationships. Qualitative assays, on the other hand, provide a binary outcome, indicating the presence or absence of a specific response.
Overall, biological assays provide valuable insights into the biological activity or potential toxicity of substances. By examining the effects on living systems, scientists can better understand the mechanisms of action and make informed decisions about the use or regulation of chemicals in various applications.
Common Misspellings for BIOLOGICAL ASSAY
- viological assay
- niological assay
- hiological assay
- giological assay
- buological assay
- bjological assay
- bkological assay
- boological assay
- b9ological assay
- b8ological assay
- biilogical assay
- biklogical assay
- billogical assay
- biplogical assay
- bi0logical assay
- bi9logical assay
- biokogical assay
- biopogical assay
- biooogical assay
- bioligical assay
Etymology of BIOLOGICAL ASSAY
The word "biological assay" comes from the combination of two terms: "biological" and "assay".
1. Biological: This term is derived from the Greek word "bios", meaning life, and the suffix "-logy" meaning the study of. Combined, "biology" refers to the scientific study of living organisms and their vital processes.
2. Assay: This term has an interesting history. It originated from the Old French word "assai", which means to try or test. The Old French word was derived from the Latin word "exagium", which means to weigh or balance. Over time, "assai" evolved into the Middle English "assay", which initially meant to test the quality of a metal by fire. Eventually, the term expanded its meaning to include any process of testing, analyzing, or evaluating the composition or potency of a substance.
Similar spelling word for BIOLOGICAL ASSAY
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