Haemagglutination
Haemagglutination (pronounced: hee-muh-gloo-tuh-nay-shuhn) is a specific biological phenomenon that involves the agglutination or clumping together of red blood cells (RBCs). This process is typically triggered by an antigen-antibody reaction, certain bacterial and viral infections, or the presence of specific haemagglutinins.
Etymology
The term "Haemagglutination" is derived from the Greek words 'haima' meaning 'blood', and 'glutinos' meaning 'sticky'. It was first used in the late 19th century to describe the clumping of red blood cells.
Process
Haemagglutination occurs when antibodies (proteins produced by the immune system to neutralize harmful substances) bind to antigens (foreign substances) on the surface of red blood cells, causing them to stick together or agglutinate. This can be observed in a laboratory setting using a haemagglutination assay, a common diagnostic tool for detecting the presence of certain viruses or antibodies in a blood sample.
Related Terms
- Haemagglutination assay: A laboratory test used to detect the presence of certain viruses or antibodies in a blood sample.
- Haemagglutinin: A type of protein found on the surface of certain viruses that can cause haemagglutination.
- Antigen: A foreign substance that triggers an immune response, leading to the production of antibodies.
- Antibody: A protein produced by the immune system that neutralizes harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Haemagglutination
- Wikipedia's article - Haemagglutination
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