Pronunciation: [hɛtɹˈə͡ʊləɡəs] (IPA) 
Heterologous is spelled with the phonetic transcription /ˌhɛtərəˈlɔːɡəs/. The word is a combination of the prefix "hetero-", meaning different or unlike, and the Latin stem "logos," meaning word. Heterologous is used to describe biological molecules or cells that come from different species or individuals. It is important to use correct spelling in scientific terminology to avoid confusion and ensure effective communication.
Heterologous is an adjective used to describe something that is derived or originating from a different species or source. It is often used in biological and medical contexts to explain the transfer or introduction of genes, proteins, cells, or other biological components between different organisms or systems.
When applied to genetic engineering or biotechnology, heterologous refers to the process of introducing genetic material from one organism into a different organism in order to express a particular trait or protein. For example, scientists may introduce a human gene into a bacterial cell, which allows the bacteria to produce a specific human protein.
In immunology, heterologous refers to the ability of an immune response generated against one pathogen to provide protection against another pathogen. Certain vaccines can elicit a heterologous immune response, where the immune system recognizes and responds to different strains or species of a pathogen, providing broader protection against related diseases.
In medical treatments, heterologous is used to describe procedures involving the transfer of tissues, organs, or cells between individuals of different species, such as the transplantation of animal organs into humans.
Overall, heterologous describes a cross-species transfer or interaction, whether it is in terms of genetic material, immune response, or medical interventions.
1. Composed of tissue or cells not normal to the part, said of certain new growths. 2. Derived from an animal of another species, said of sera.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "heterologous" is derived from two Greek roots: "hetero" meaning "different" or "other" and "logos" meaning "word", "speech", or "reasoning". In combination, "heterologous" refers to something that is different or derived from another source or species. In biology, it is often used to describe an introduction of genetic material from one species to another.
