DESMOLOGY Meaning and
Definition
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Desmology is a branch of biology that focuses on the study of desmosomes. Desmosomes are specialized intercellular junctions that exist in various tissues throughout the body. These junctions serve to provide mechanical strength and stability to tissues subjected to high levels of mechanical stress, such as the skin, heart, and muscles.
In the context of desmology, scientists examine the structure, function, and molecular components of desmosomes, as well as their role in cell adhesion and tissue integrity. The field involves studying how desmosomes form, how they contribute to cellular communication, and how their malfunction can lead to various diseases and disorders.
Desmosomes consist of transmembrane proteins, such as cadherins, which connect adjacent cell membranes, and intracellular proteins, such as plakoglobins and desmoplakins, which anchor these junctions to the cell's cytoskeleton. Through these components, desmosomes provide strong mechanical cohesion between cells, preventing their separation during movements like contraction and stretching.
Understanding the mechanisms behind desmosome formation and function has significant implications for human health. While desmosome abnormalities have been linked to several genetic disorders, including various skin diseases and cardiomyopathies, their dysfunction also plays a role in the progression of certain tumors and autoimmune conditions. Therefore, research in desmology not only seeks to unravel the fundamental biology of desmosomes but also to identify potential therapeutic targets for mitigating these diseases.
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The branch of anatomy dealing with the ligaments.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The anatomy of the tendons and ligaments, or a description of them.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DESMOLOGY
- xesmology
- cesmology
- fesmology
- resmology
- eesmology
- dwsmology
- dssmology
- ddsmology
- drsmology
- d4smology
- d3smology
- deamology
- dezmology
- dexmology
- dedmology
- deemology
- dewmology
- desnology
- deskology
Etymology of DESMOLOGY
The word "Desmology" is derived from the Greek words "desmos" (δεσμός) meaning "bond" or "tie" and "logia" (λογία) meaning "study" or "science". Thus, the term "Desmology" collectively means the "study of bonds" or "the science of ties". In a more specific context, it is often used to refer to the study of ligaments, which are connective tissue that connect bones to other bones in the human body.
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