How Do You Spell CYTOPHAGY?

Pronunciation: [sˈa͡ɪtəfˌad͡ʒi] (IPA)

The word "cytophagy" refers to the process of cell-eating, in which a cell consumes another cell through phagocytosis. The spelling of this word is as follows: /saɪ.tɒˈfeɪ.dʒi/. The first syllable is pronounced as "sigh", the second syllable is pronounced as "toe", the third syllable is pronounced as "fay", and the fourth syllable is pronounced as "djee". The "ph" in the middle of the word is pronounced as an "f" sound, and the final "y" is pronounced as "ee".

CYTOPHAGY Meaning and Definition

1. Cytophagy is a term used in cell biology and represents the process by which a cell engulfs or consumes another cell, particle, or foreign substance. It is a form of cellular eating or ingestion.

   During cytophagy, a cell surrounds the target material with its cell membrane, forming a small vesicle called a phagosome. The phagosome then fuses with lysosomes, which contain enzymes that break down the engulfed material. This leads to the digestion and degradation of the contents of the phagosome.

   Cytophagy is observed in a variety of cell types, most notably in immune cells called phagocytes. These cells play a vital role in the body's defense against invading microorganisms and foreign particles. By engulfing and digesting these pathogens, phagocytes help eliminate potential threats and contribute to the immune response.

   Although primarily associated with cellular self-defense, cytophagy also occurs in processes unrelated to immune system functions. For example, some cells may ingest and break down dying or damaged cells as part of tissue remodeling or maintenance. Additionally, certain unicellular organisms rely on cytophagy as their primary method of nutrient acquisition.

   Overall, cytophagy is a fundamental cellular process that enables the removal of unwanted or harmful substances and plays a role in maintaining cell and tissue homeostasis.

2. The devouring of other cells by the phagocytes.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for CYTOPHAGY

• cytophag y

Etymology of CYTOPHAGY

The word cytophagy is derived from two Greek roots: cyto meaning cell and phagy meaning to eat. Therefore, the literal translation of cytophagy is cell-eating.

Plural form of CYTOPHAGY is CYTOPHAGIES