CYTOLYTIC Meaning and
Definition
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The term "cytolytic" refers to something that has the ability to lyse or destroy cells. It is commonly used in the field of biology and medicine to describe substances or processes that cause cell lysis.
In biological contexts, cytolytic substances can include various molecules such as enzymes, antibodies, or chemical compounds that are capable of breaking down the cell membrane or disrupting the integrity of cells. These cytolytic substances can act directly on the cell membrane, leading to the release of cellular contents and ultimately the death of the cell.
Cytolytic processes can also be executed by immune cells as part of the body's defense mechanism against foreign pathogens. For example, cytotoxic T cells and natural killer cells possess cytolytic activity, which allows them to recognize and destroy infected or cancerous cells. These immune cells release cytolytic molecules called perforins and granzymes that can induce cell death by promoting cell membrane permeabilization or triggering apoptotic pathways.
The cytolytic function of these immune cells plays a crucial role in immune responses and the elimination of aberrant cells. However, dysregulation or excessive cytolytic activity can also have harmful effects, leading to tissue damage or autoimmune diseases.
Overall, cytolytic refers to the ability to cause cell lysis or destruction, whether through enzymatic, immune-mediated, or other mechanisms.
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Relating to cytolysis; possessing a solvent or destructive action on cells.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CYTOLYTIC
- xytolytic
- vytolytic
- fytolytic
- dytolytic
- cttolytic
- cgtolytic
- chtolytic
- c7tolytic
- c6tolytic
- cyrolytic
- cyfolytic
- cygolytic
- cyyolytic
- cy6olytic
- cy5olytic
- cytilytic
- cytklytic
- cytllytic
- cytplytic
- cyt0lytic
Etymology of CYTOLYTIC
The word "cytolytic" is derived from two roots: "cyto-" and "-lytic".
The root "cyto-" refers to cells. It comes from the Greek word "kytos", meaning "hollow vessel" or "cell". This root is commonly used in scientific and medical terminology related to cells.
The suffix "-lytic" is derived from the Greek word "lysis" which means "loosening" or "breaking down". It is often used in medical terminology to indicate a process of destruction or dissolution. For example, in biology, "lysis" can refer to the breaking down of cells or the destruction of cell membranes.
When combined, "cyto-" and "-lytic" in the word "cytolytic" form a term that describes something that causes the breakdown or destruction of cells.
Similar spelling words for CYTOLYTIC
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