Attenuated
Attenuated
Attenuated (pronounced: /əˈten.ju.eɪ.tɪd/) is a term often used in the medical field to describe a virus or bacteria that has been weakened in its virulence. This is often done in the process of creating vaccines, where the attenuated virus or bacteria is used to stimulate an immune response without causing the disease.
Etymology
The term "attenuated" comes from the Latin word "attenuare", which means "to thin or weaken". It was first used in the medical context in the 19th century.
Related Terms
- Virus: A type of microorganism that can cause disease in humans and other animals.
- Bacteria: Single-celled organisms that can cause infections and diseases.
- Virulence: The degree of pathogenicity within a group or species of parasites as indicated by case fatality rates and/or the ability of the organism to invade the tissues of the host.
- Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides active acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease.
- Immune response: The reaction of the cells and fluids of the body to the presence of a substance which is not recognized as a constituent of the body itself.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Attenuated
- Wikipedia's article - Attenuated
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