PHAGOLYSOSOME Meaning and
Definition
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A phagolysosome is a specialized cellular compartment formed by the fusion of a phagosome, which is responsible for engulfing and internalizing foreign particles or microorganisms, with a lysosome, an organelle filled with digestive enzymes. This fusion process occurs primarily in immune cells, such as macrophages and neutrophils, as part of the body's defense mechanism against harmful invaders.
The formation of a phagolysosome is a vital step in the process of phagocytosis, which is the ingestion and subsequent breakdown of foreign substances by these immune cells. Once a phagosome engulfs a foreign particle, it undergoes maturation by fusing with a lysosome. This fusion leads to the acidification of the phagolysosome, as well as the delivery of various hydrolytic enzymes that degrade the engulfed material.
Phagolysosomes serve multiple functions essential to immune defense. They facilitate the destruction and degradation of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms, through the action of lysosomal enzymes. Additionally, they help to neutralize toxic substances released by the invaders, preventing their dissemination within the body.
The formation and functioning of phagolysosomes play a crucial role not only in the immune response but also in maintaining overall cellular homeostasis. Dysregulation or dysfunction of phagolysosomes can lead to various pathologies, including immune disorders and infectious diseases. Therefore, understanding the complex processes associated with phagolysosome formation and maintenance is essential for the development of effective therapeutic interventions in immune-related ailments.
Common Misspellings for PHAGOLYSOSOME
- ohagolysosome
- lhagolysosome
- -hagolysosome
- 0hagolysosome
- pgagolysosome
- pbagolysosome
- pnagolysosome
- pjagolysosome
- puagolysosome
- pyagolysosome
- phzgolysosome
- phsgolysosome
- phwgolysosome
- phqgolysosome
- phafolysosome
- phavolysosome
- phabolysosome
- phaholysosome
- phayolysosome
- phatolysosome
Etymology of PHAGOLYSOSOME
The word "Phagolysosome" is a combination of three roots: "phago", "lyso", and "some".
The root "phago" is derived from the Greek word "phagein" meaning "to eat" or "to devour". In the context of biology, "phago-" is used to indicate the process of engulfing or ingesting.
The root "lyso" is derived from the Greek word "lysis" meaning "loosening" or "dissolution". In biology, "lyso-" is used to refer to the process of breaking down or digestion.
The suffix "some" is derived from the Greek word "soma" meaning "body" or "structure". In biology, "-some" is used to refer to a small body or structure within a cell.
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