Glossary in ANAPHY book pt. 1 Flashcards
Abdominal
pertaining to the anterior body trunk inferior to the ribs.
Accommodation
(1) adaptation in response to differences or changing needs; (2) adjustment of the eye for seeing objects at close range.
Acetylcholine (ACh)
a chemical transmitter substance released by certain nerve endings.
Acid
a substance that liberates hydrogen ions when in an aqueous solution; proton donor; compare with base.
Acid-base balance
the maintenance of proper pH in the body; involves buffers, the respiratory system, and the kidneys.
Acidosis
a condition in which the blood has an excess hydrogen ion concentration and a decreased pH; also called ketoacidosis.
Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)
immunodeficiency caused by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacking T cells; symptoms include severe weight loss, night sweats, swollen lymph nodes, and opportunistic infections.
Acromial
pertaining to the point of the shoulder.
Acrosome
an enzyme-containing structure covering the nucleus of the sperm.
Actin
one of the principal contractile proteins found in muscle; makes up the thin filaments.
Action potential
an electrical event occurring when a stimulus of sufficient intensity is applied to a neuron or muscle cell, allowing sodium ions to move into the cell and reverse the polarity.
Active immunity
immunity produced by an encounter with an antigen; provides immunological memory.
Active site
region on the surface of a globular protein (such as an enzyme) where it interacts with other molecules of complementary shape and charge (such as substrate).
Active transport
net movement of a substance across a membrane against a concentration or electrical gradient; requires release and use of cellular energy.
Adaptive defense system
branch of the immune system that targets specific antigen; involves B and T lymphocytes and antigen- presenting cells; also called specific defense system.
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
the compound that is the important intracellular energy source; cellular energy.
Adipose tissue
fat.
Adrenal glands
hormone-producing glands located superior to the kidneys; each consists of a medulla and a cortex.
Aerobic respiration
respiration in which oxygen is consumed and glucose is broken down entirely; water, carbon dioxide, and large amounts of ATP are the final products.
Afferent
carrying to or toward a center.
Agglutinins
antibodies in blood plasma that cause clumping of corpuscles or bacteria.
Agglutinogens
(1) antigens that stimulate the formation of a specific agglutinin; (2) antigens found on red blood cells that are responsible for determining the ABO blood group classification.
Albumin
a protein found in virtually all animals; the most abundant plasma protein.
Alkalosis
a condition in which the blood has a lower hydrogen ion concentration than normal and an increased pH.