OPSONIN Meaning and
Definition
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Opsonin is a term used in immunology to refer to a molecule that enhances the process of phagocytosis, which is the engulfment and destruction of microorganisms and foreign particles by specialized cells called phagocytes. It comes from the Greek word "opson," which means "to prepare a feast" or "to make ready for eating." In the context of the immune system, an opsonin acts as a molecular signal or "dinner bell" to attract phagocytes to the site of infection or invasion.
Opsonins can take various forms, including antibodies, complement proteins, or other molecules that bind to pathogens or foreign particles. By binding to these targets, opsonins mark them for recognition and engulfment by phagocytic cells such as macrophages and neutrophils. This marking process greatly increases the efficiency and specificity of phagocytosis, facilitating the rapid elimination of harmful substances from the body.
Opsonins work through several mechanisms. First, they coat the surface of the microorganism or particle, making it more recognizable to phagocytes. Additionally, they can activate complement proteins, which further enhance phagocytosis. Opsonins can also interact with specific receptors on phagocytes, triggering signaling pathways that lead to the engulfment and destruction of the target.
Overall, opsonins play a vital role in the immune response by promoting the efficient removal of pathogens and foreign particles. Without opsonins, our bodies would struggle to effectively combat infections and maintain health.
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A substance occurring in the blood serum, the action of which is to render microorganisms and possibly other cells attractive to the phagocytes; certain opsonins are present in normal serum and act upon all microorganisms, others are formed in response to special stimuli and are believed to be specific for one bacterial species only.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OPSONIN
- ipsonin
- kpsonin
- lpsonin
- ppsonin
- 0psonin
- 9psonin
- oosonin
- olsonin
- o-sonin
- o0sonin
- opaonin
- opzonin
- opxonin
- opdonin
- opeonin
- opwonin
- opsinin
- opsknin
- opslnin
Etymology of OPSONIN
The word "opsonin" is derived from the Greek word "opsōneîn", which means "to cater" or "to provide food". In Ancient Greece, "opsōn" referred to any kind of savory food or condiment that accompanied the main course, making it more appetizing. "Opsonin" was first introduced by British physician Sir Almroth Wright in the late 19th century to describe substances present in blood serum that enhance the phagocytosis (ingestion) of bacteria by white blood cells. The term was chosen to highlight the role of these substances in facilitating the process of "catering" or enhancing the recognition and uptake of pathogens by immune cells.
Similar spelling words for OPSONIN
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