Steatolysis, a term used in biology and medicine that refers to the breakdown of adipose or fatty tissue, is spelled as [sti:tə'laɪsɪs]. The word is composed of two parts: "steato-" meaning fat and "-lysis" meaning breakdown or destruction. The IPA phonetic transcription helps understand the pronunciation and spelling of the word, where "st-" is pronounced as "sti:t", "a" as "ə", and "y" as "aɪ". The last syllable "-sis" is pronounced as "sɪs". Overall, the spelling of "steatolysis" reflects its meaning and origin.
Steatolysis refers to a process of enzymatic breakdown or decomposition of fats or lipids within the body. The term is derived from the combination of two Greek words, "steato," which means fat, and "lysis," which means to break down or dissolve. Steatolysis can occur in various contexts, such as metabolism, cellular functioning, or digestive processes.
In the field of metabolism, steatolysis is the breakdown of fat molecules into smaller components like fatty acids and glycerol, which can then be utilized as a source of energy. This process is important for maintaining energy balance and providing fuel for cellular activities. It typically occurs in specialized cells, such as adipocytes (fat cells) or hepatocytes (liver cells).
Steatolysis is also relevant in the context of digestive processes. During digestion, steatolysis occurs in the intestine, where dietary fats are broken down by pancreatic enzymes called lipases. These lipases hydrolyze the fat molecules, converting them into simpler forms that can be absorbed by the body.
Overall, steatolysis plays a crucial role in the body's energy metabolism, as well as in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. Understanding and regulation of this process is essential for maintaining a healthy balance of fat stores and for proper cellular functioning.
The hydrolysis or emulsion of fat in the process of digestion.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "steatolysis" is derived from two components: "steato" and "lysis".
The first component, "steato-", is derived from the Greek word "stear" (στέαρ) which means "fat" or "tallow". It is commonly used in medical terminology to refer to conditions or processes related to fat.
The second component, "-lysis", is also derived from Greek and means "loosening" or "dissolving". It is frequently used in medical terminology to indicate the breakdown or decomposition of something.
Therefore, "steatolysis" can be understood as the process or mechanism of breaking down or dissolving fat.