alexin
Definition
Noun - A substance in blood serum that can destroy bacteria: "alexin" is a term used in immunology and historical medicine to refer to a bactericidal substance found in blood serum, now more commonly known as complement. It is part of the body's innate immune system that helps neutralize pathogens.
Usage Examples
- (A historical reference to the bactericidal component of blood serum.)
- (Describing the function of the substance in immune defence.)
Advanced Usage
- "alexin activity": the ability of blood serum to destroy bacteria.
- The alexin activity in the patient's blood was measured to assess immune function. (Testing the bactericidal power of the serum.)
- "alexin fixation": an outdated term for the process now known as complement fixation.
- The alexin fixation test was used to diagnose certain infectious diseases. (A historical diagnostic method.)
Variants and Related Words
- Alexinic (adj): relating to or containing alexin.
- The alexinic properties of fresh serum are lost when heated. (The bactericidal qualities are destroyed by heat.)
- Alexinogen (n): a substance that induces the production of alexin.
- The injection of alexinogen stimulated the body's natural defences. (A historical term for an immunostimulant.)
Synonyms
- Complement: the modern term for the same group of proteins in blood serum that destroy bacteria.
- Bacteriolysin: a substance that can break down bacteria, though this term is more specific.
- Cytolysin: a broader term for a substance that destroys cells, including bacteria.
Related Idioms