How Do You Spell PHAGOLYSIS?

Pronunciation: [faɡˈɒləsˌɪs] (IPA)

Phagolysis is a biological term that describes the breakdown of the phagosome, a structure within a cell that engulfs and digests foreign particles. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which represents the sounds of language. The first syllable, "phago," is pronounced /ˈfeɪɡəʊ/, with a long A sound and a hard G. The second syllable, "lysis," is pronounced /ˈlaɪsɪs/, with a long I sound and a soft S. Together, the word is pronounced /feɪˈɡɒlɪsɪs/.

PHAGOLYSIS Meaning and Definition

1. Phagolysis refers to the process of lysis or breakdown of phagocytic vacuoles known as phagosomes. Phagosomes are membrane-bound organelles that form within phagocytic cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, during the process of phagocytosis. Phagocytosis is a vital mechanism by which these cells engulf and eliminate foreign particles, including bacteria, fungi, and cellular debris.

   Upon formation, phagosomes undergo a series of maturation steps involving fusion with lysosomes, which contain various digestive enzymes. This fusion results in the formation of phagolysosomes, where the engulfed material is degraded and destroyed. Phagolysis occurs subsequently as the digestion process takes place within these phagolysosomes.

   During phagolysis, the lysosomal enzymes present within the phagolysosomes break down the engulfed material, including proteins, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates, into smaller molecules. This degradation facilitates the release of metabolites and nutrients, essential for cellular energy production and other metabolic processes. Additionally, phagolysis is crucial for the elimination of pathogens and foreign substances from the body.

   Understanding the process of phagolysis plays a significant role in immunology and microbiology, as defects in phagocytosis or phagolysis can lead to impaired immune responses, increased susceptibility to infections, and various diseases. Research in this field aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying phagolysis, and to develop potential therapeutic strategies targeting this process to enhance immune responses and combat infectious diseases.

2. The disintegration of phagocytes, phagocytolysis.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for PHAGOLYSIS

• phaeolysis

Etymology of PHAGOLYSIS

The word "phagolysis" is derived from two Greek roots: "phago" and "lysis".

The root "phago" comes from the Greek word "phagein", meaning "to eat" or "to devour". In scientific terminology, "phago-" typically refers to the process of ingestion or engulfment of particles or cells by other cells.

The root "lysis" comes from the Greek word "lysis", which means "loosening" or "dissolution". In the context of biology, "lysis" usually refers to the breakdown or destruction of cells.

Therefore, combining these two roots, "phagolysis" can be understood as the process of cell destruction or breakdown after engulfing or ingesting another cell.

Plural form of PHAGOLYSIS is PHAGOLYSES