How Do You Spell BACTERIOLYTIC?

1. Bacteriolytic is an adjective that refers to the property of being able to destroy or lyse bacteria. It describes any substance, organism, or process that has the capability to cause bacteriolysis, the disintegration or dissolution of bacterial cells.

   Typically, bacteriolytic substances work by targeting and destabilizing the structure and integrity of bacterial cells. They may disrupt the bacterial cell wall, inhibit essential cellular processes, or induce the release of lytic enzymes. These mechanisms result in the breakdown of the bacterial cell membrane, leading to the release of cellular contents and the death of the bacterium.

   Bacteriolytic agents play a crucial role in combating bacterial infections. For instance, some antibiotics exert their bactericidal effect by being bacteriolytic, effectively killing the bacteria. Additionally, the human immune system employs various bacteriolytic factors, such as complement proteins and antibodies, to defend against invading bacteria.

   In the field of microbiology, the study of bacteriolytic agents and their mechanisms of action is of great importance. Researchers seek to identify and develop novel bacteriolytic substances that can effectively combat multidrug-resistant pathogens. Understanding how bacteriolytic agents work can also shed light on various therapeutic strategies and contribute to the development of new treatments for infectious diseases.

2. Relating to bacteriolysis; possessing a solvent action on bacteria.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for BACTERIOLYTIC

The word "bacteriolytic" consists of two parts: "bacterio-" and "-lytic".

1. The prefix "bacterio-" is derived from the Greek word "baktērion", which means "small staff" or "rod-shaped". This term was used to refer to bacteria, which have a rod-like shape. In English, "bacterio-" is used as a combining form to indicate something related to bacteria.

2. The suffix "-lytic" is derived from the Greek word "lysis", which means "a loosening" or "a dissolution". In English, "-lytic" is used as a combining form to indicate something that causes breakdown, dissolution, or destruction.

Therefore, "bacteriolytic" combines the two elements to mean something that causes the breakdown or destruction of bacteria.

Similar spelling words for BACTERIOLYTIC