What does hemagglutinin mean?
Hemagglutinin is a type of protein that causes red blood cells to clump together. It plays a crucial role in the life cycle of certain viruses, such as influenza, by facilitating their entry into host cells. Hemagglutinin is also used in medical research and diagnostics to study and detect various diseases. The protein's ability to bind to carbohydrates on the surface of red blood cells makes it a valuable tool for understanding cellular interactions and developing new treatments. With its unique properties and functions, hemagglutinin is an important area of study in the fields of biology and medicine.
nounHemagglutinin is a type of lectin or carbohydrate-binding protein that causes red blood cells to clump together. It is a key component of certain viruses, such as influenza, and is used in medical research and diagnostics.
- A protein that causes red blood cells to clump together
- A component of certain viruses that facilitates host cell entry
"The influenza virus uses hemagglutinin to bind to and enter host cells."
"The patient's blood test showed high levels of hemagglutinin."
"The researchers studied the role of hemagglutinin in viral infection."
Used when referring to multiple types or instances of hemagglutinin.
"The researchers studied several hemagglutinins from different viral strains."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of hemagglutinin
The term 'hemagglutinin' is derived from the Greek words 'haima' (blood), 'gluttos' (sticky), and the suffix '-in', which indicates a protein. The word has been used in scientific literature since the early 20th century to describe proteins that cause red blood cells to clump together.
How hemagglutinin is actually used
Formal and technical term used primarily in biology, medicine, and scientific research.