Cytolytic meaning

Cytolytic means destructive to cells, typically through the disruption of their cell membranes.


Cytolytic definitions

Word backwards citylotyc
Part of speech The word "cytolytic" is an adjective.
Syllabic division cy-to-lyt-ic
Plural The plural of cytolytic is cytolytics.
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) o,i
Consonants (4) c,y,t,l

Cytolytic

Definition

Cytolytic pertains to any substance or process that is capable of destroying or causing the dissolution of cells. This can refer to certain types of medications, immune cells, or even pathogens that have the ability to induce cell lysis.

Role in Immune Response

In the context of the immune system, cytolytic mechanisms play a crucial role in defending the body against infections and abnormalities. Cytolytic T cells, for example, are effector T cells that can directly kill infected or abnormal cells through the release of cytotoxic granules containing perforin and granzymes.

Applications in Medicine

Cytolytic therapies have been explored in various medical fields, including cancer treatment and autoimmune diseases. Strategies that utilize cytolytic agents aim to target specific cells while sparing healthy ones, offering a more targeted approach to treatment.

Examples of Cytolytic Agents

One well-known class of cytolytic agents is monoclonal antibodies, which can bind to specific antigens on target cells and trigger cytotoxic mechanisms to destroy them. Additionally, certain immunotherapies, such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, harness the cytolytic capabilities of modified immune cells to target and eliminate cancer cells.

Future Perspectives

As our understanding of cytolytic mechanisms continues to advance, researchers are exploring innovative approaches to harness these processes for therapeutic purposes. By developing more targeted and efficient cytolytic therapies, the medical field holds the potential to revolutionize treatment strategies for a variety of diseases.


Cytolytic Examples

  1. The cytolytic activity of the immune system helps destroy infected cells.
  2. Certain medications can induce a cytolytic effect on cancer cells.
  3. Researchers are studying new cytolytic agents for improved cancer treatment.
  4. Cytolytic enzymes play a key role in breaking down cell membranes.
  5. The cytolytic potential of natural killer cells can target virus-infected cells.
  6. Scientists are investigating the mechanisms behind cytolytic pathways in the body.
  7. Cytolytic proteins released by immune cells can cause cell death in pathogens.
  8. Certain autoimmune diseases can be characterized by cytolytic attacks on healthy tissues.
  9. The use of cytolytic peptides in antimicrobial treatments is being explored.
  10. Cytolytic activity can be regulated by various signaling pathways in the body.


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  • Updated 06/07/2024 - 12:50:52