cytolytic

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cytolytic

A scientist observes a cytolytic reaction under a microscope.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Relating to cytolysis: Pertaining to or causing the dissolution or destruction of a cell, especially through the breakdown of its plasma membrane.
Usage
  • The term "cytolytic" is primarily used in scientific contexts, particularly in biology, immunology, and medicine. It describes processes, agents (like toxins or immune cells), or effects that lead to cell lysis (rupture and death).
Examples
  • Adjective:
    • The immune system produces cytolytic T cells to destroy virus-infected cells.
    • Researchers studied the cytolytic activity of the new antibiotic on bacterial membranes.
    • The venom has a potent cytolytic effect, causing rapid tissue damage.
Advanced Usage

  • "Cytolytic pathway": A specific sequence of events within an organism (often the immune system) that results in the destruction of a target cell.

    • The complement system can activate a cytolytic pathway to eliminate pathogens.

  • "Cytolytic assay": A laboratory test used to measure the ability of a substance or cells to cause cell lysis.

    • The team used a cytolytic assay to quantify the toxin's potency.
Variants and Related Words

  • Cytolysis (n): The process of cell dissolution or destruction.

    • Hemolysis is a specific type of cytolysis affecting red blood cells.

  • Cytolysin (n): A substance (e.g., a toxin or antibody) that induces cytolysis.

    • Streptolysin O is a bacterial cytolysin.
Synonyms
  • Lytic: Causing or relating to lysis (a more general term for dissolution, which can apply to cells or other entities like bacterial cells in virology).
  • Cell-destroying: A descriptive, non-technical synonym.
Related Phrases

  • Cytolytic complement complex: A structure formed by complement proteins that creates a pore in a target cell's membrane, leading to its lysis.

    • The formation of the membrane attack complex is a cytolytic complement mechanism.

  • Cytolytic virus: A virus that replicates and exits the host cell by causing its lysis.

    • Many bacteriophages are cytolytic viruses.
cytolytic

A scientist observes a cytolytic reaction under a microscope.

Adjective
  1. of or relating to cytolysis, the dissolution or destruction of a cell