OPSONATION Meaning and
Definition
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Opsonation is a term primarily used in immunology and microbiology to describe a process in which foreign particles, specifically bacteria or other microorganisms, are made more susceptible to attack and clearance by the immune system. It is an important mechanism employed by the immune system to aid in the recognition and elimination of pathogens.
During opsonation, antibodies known as opsonins, which can be produced by either natural or acquired immunity, bind to the surface of the foreign particles. This process enhances the recognition and phagocytosis (engulfment) of these opsonized particles by immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils. Opsonins can include various immunoglobulins, complement proteins, or other molecules that coat the surface of microorganisms, thereby making them more recognizable to the immune system.
Opsonation plays a crucial role in the immune response by facilitating the elimination of pathogens. By binding to foreign particles, opsonins create a bridge between the pathogen and immune cells, enhancing the efficiency of phagocytosis. This mechanism also aids in the activation of the complement system, which further enhances the microorganism's clearance.
Overall, opsonation is a fundamental process that enhances the immune system's ability to recognize and eliminate foreign particles, promoting an effective immune response against invading pathogens.
Common Misspellings for OPSONATION
- opsoniztion
- ipsonation
- kpsonation
- lpsonation
- ppsonation
- 0psonation
- 9psonation
- oosonation
- olsonation
- o-sonation
- o0sonation
- opaonation
- opzonation
- opxonation
- opdonation
- opeonation
- opwonation
- opsination
- opsknation
- opslnation
Etymology of OPSONATION
The word "opsonation" is derived from the Greek word "opson" (ὄψον), which means "food" or "dish". In ancient Greece, opson referred to any additional food or sauce that was used to flavor or improve the taste of a main dish. Over time, the term "opsonation" came to be associated with the act of adding a savory accompaniment to enhance or stimulate appetite. In modern scientific usage, particularly in immunology and microbiology, opsonation refers to the process in which antibodies or complement proteins coat pathogens, making them more susceptible to phagocytosis by immune cells.
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