ISOHEMOLYSIN Meaning and
Definition
-
Isohemolysin is a term used in biology and medicine to describe a specific type of molecule or substance that is capable of causing the lysis or destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis) from animals of the same species. Derived from the word "iso" meaning equal or identical, and "hemolysin" referring to a substance that can induce hemolysis, isohemolysins are proteins that possess the capability to lyse red blood cells in individuals belonging to the same species.
Isohemolysins are usually produced by certain bacteria or microbial pathogens and are considered to be a type of virulence factor. They are often secreted into the external environment where they can encounter red blood cells, causing their destruction. This property enables the bacterium to colonize and invade different tissues within the host organism, contributing to the pathogenicity of the microbe.
The mechanism behind the activity of isohemolysins involves the binding of the protein to specific receptors present on the surface of red blood cells, leading to the disruption of their cellular integrity. This can lead to various detrimental outcomes, such as anemia, organ damage, and impaired oxygen transport.
In research and clinical settings, the detection and evaluation of isohemolysin activity can be important for diagnosing certain infections, identifying bacterial strains, and understanding the pathogenic mechanisms employed by microorganisms. Consequently, the study of isohemolysins plays a significant role in advancing our knowledge of host-pathogen interactions and the development of therapeutic interventions.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ISOHEMOLYSIN
- usohemolysin
- jsohemolysin
- ksohemolysin
- osohemolysin
- 9sohemolysin
- 8sohemolysin
- iaohemolysin
- izohemolysin
- ixohemolysin
- idohemolysin
- ieohemolysin
- iwohemolysin
- isihemolysin
- iskhemolysin
- islhemolysin
- isphemolysin
- is0hemolysin
- is9hemolysin
- isogemolysin
- isobemolysin
Etymology of ISOHEMOLYSIN
The word "isohemolysin" is composed of two parts: "iso-" and "hemolysin".
The prefix "iso-" comes from the Greek word "ísos", meaning "equal" or "same". It is often used in scientific terminology to indicate similarity or equality.
The term "hemolysin" is derived from the Greek words "haima", meaning "blood", and "lysis", meaning "to break or destroy". In the context of biochemistry and immunology, a hemolysin refers to a substance or toxin that causes the destruction or lysis of red blood cells.
Therefore, when combined, "isohemolysin" can be interpreted as a substance or agent that has equal or similar lytic capabilities against red blood cells.
