OPSONISATION Meaning and
Definition
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Opsonisation, also known as opsonization, is a process in immunology and biology that enhances the ability of phagocytic cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, to engulf and eliminate foreign particles, pathogens, and cellular debris. It is a crucial part of the immune response against invading microorganisms.
During opsonisation, specific molecules called opsonins, commonly antibodies like immunoglobulin G (IgG) or complement proteins, coat the surface of the foreign particles. This opsonin layer facilitates the recognition and attachment of phagocytic cells to the targeted particles, making them more accessible for engulfment. Opsonins act as a bridge between the phagocytic cell's receptors and the antigens on the particles, promoting their rapid uptake.
The binding of opsonins to the surface of pathogens or other particles stimulates the phagocytic cells to engulf and destroy them through a process called phagocytosis. This process helps to eliminate the foreign invaders and clear away cellular debris, preventing their further spread and potential harm to the body.
Opsonisation plays a critical role in the immune system's defense mechanisms against infections. It enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of phagocytic cells, allowing them to recognize and eliminate a wide range of pathogens and antigens. Defects or impairments in opsonisation can lead to susceptibility to infections and impaired immune responses.
Overall, opsonisation is an essential process in the immune system's defense against foreign invaders, acting as a key step in phagocytosis and the removal of pathogens and cellular debris from the body.
Common Misspellings for OPSONISATION
- ipsonisation
- kpsonisation
- lpsonisation
- ppsonisation
- 0psonisation
- 9psonisation
- oosonisation
- olsonisation
- o-sonisation
- o0sonisation
- opaonisation
- opzonisation
- opxonisation
- opdonisation
- opeonisation
- opwonisation
- opsinisation
- opsknisation
- opslnisation
Etymology of OPSONISATION
The word "opsonisation" comes from the Greek word "opsis", meaning "a looking into", and the Greek word "opsōnein", meaning "to prepare food for eating" or "to make savory". In ancient Greece, opson was a term used to refer to any food or seasoning that served to enhance the taste of staple foods such as bread and meat. It was believed that opson played a role in stimulating the appetite, hence, "to make savory". The suffix "-isation" was added to the word to form "opsonisation", which refers to the process of enhancing or preparing food for consumption. In biology and immunology, "opsonisation" is used to describe the process by which microorganisms are marked for phagocytosis (engulfment and destruction) by white blood cells.
Similar spelling word for OPSONISATION
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