CHEMOTAXIS Meaning and
Definition
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Chemotaxis is a biological mechanism that describes the ability of cells, organisms, or other motile structures to move directionally in response to specific chemicals in the surrounding environment. It is a critical process that plays a fundamental role in various biological systems, from unicellular organisms like bacteria to complex higher organisms like humans.
The term "chemotaxis" is derived from the Greek words "chemeia," which means "chemistry," and "taxis," meaning "arrangement." It refers to the orderly movement of cells towards or away from chemical signals, often exerted through gradients of concentration. The molecular mechanism behind chemotaxis involves the recognition of specific chemical cues, known as chemoattractants or chemorepellents, by specialized receptor proteins present on the cell surface. These receptors translate the chemical signal into intracellular signaling pathways, initiating a series of cellular responses that ultimately result in directed movement.
Chemotaxis is crucial for numerous physiological processes, ranging from immune responses to wound healing, embryogenesis, and the navigation of cells during development. In microbial contexts, chemotaxis governs the movement of bacteria towards nutrients for growth or away from harmful substances. In multicellular organisms, it also regulates cell migration and plays a crucial role in the immune system's functioning.
The study of chemotaxis has extensive implications in various fields, including medicine, ecology, and biotechnology. Understanding the underlying mechanisms of chemotaxis enables researchers to explore potential therapeutic targets, develop antimicrobial strategies, and enhance the efficiency of biotechnological processes.
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Reaction of living protoplasm to a chemical stimulus, whereby the cells are attracted (positive c.) or repelled (negative c.) by acids, alkalies, or other bodies exhibiting chemical properties; chemiotaxis, chemotropism.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHEMOTAXIS
Etymology of CHEMOTAXIS
The term "chemotaxis" is derived from two Greek words: "chemo" meaning chemical and "taxis" meaning movement. It was coined by the German scientist Julius Adler in 1966 to describe the directed movement of living organisms, particularly cells, in response to chemical gradients.
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