CORD FACTOR Meaning and
Definition
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Cord Factor refers to a unique type of mycolic acid that is found in the cell wall of certain species of bacteria, particularly those belonging to the Mycobacterium genus. It is a crucial component of the cell wall and plays a significant role in the virulence and pathogenicity of these bacteria. The term "cord" is derived from the characteristic cord-like appearance that is formed when these bacteria are grown in a laboratory setting.
Cord Factor is composed of a long-chain fatty acid (mycolic acid), which is attached to a disaccharide molecule. This complex structure gives it distinctive features and unique biological properties. It is primarily responsible for the formation of serpentine-like cords or twisted bundles of bacteria during growth, which are referred to as "cording."
The presence of Cord Factor in the cell wall has been linked to the ability of pathogenic mycobacteria to evade the immune system and cause persistent infections. It is believed to promote the survival and growth of these bacteria within host cells and contribute to tissue damage. Cord Factor is also known to interfere with various aspects of host immune response, such as phagocytosis and cytokine production.
Furthermore, Cord Factor has been implicated in the granuloma formation, a characteristic feature of infections caused by mycobacteria. Granulomas are organized immune cell aggregates that develop as a protective response to contain the infection within host tissues.
In summary, Cord Factor is a unique mycolic acid found in the cell wall of certain bacteria, particularly pathogenic mycobacteria. It plays a critical role in the bacteria's virulence and pathogenicity, influencing various aspects of the host immune response and contributing to the formation of granulomas during infection.
Common Misspellings for CORD FACTOR
- xord factor
- vord factor
- ford factor
- dord factor
- cird factor
- ckrd factor
- clrd factor
- cprd factor
- c0rd factor
- c9rd factor
- coed factor
- codd factor
- cofd factor
- cotd factor
- co5d factor
- co4d factor
- cors factor
- corx factor
- corc factor
- corf factor
Etymology of CORD FACTOR
The word "Cord Factor" has its origin in the field of microbiology, specifically in relation to a group of bacteria called Mycobacterium. The term "Cord" in "Cord Factor" refers to the long, rope-like structures formed by these bacteria when grown in broth culture.
The etymology of the word "Cord" comes from the Latin word "chorda", which means "string" or "rope". This term was chosen to describe the appearance of the bacteria when grown in certain conditions. The bacteria form long, intertwined chains or cords of cells that give them a distinctive appearance.
The term "Factor" is used to refer to a specific molecule or component produced by the bacteria that is responsible for the formation of these cord structures. It is called a "factor" because it plays a crucial role in determining the visible characteristics of the bacteria.
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