Category: C

One of the adhesion molecules (embedded in the surface of the linings of blood vessels) that assists the neutrophils on their journey from the bloodstream through the walls of blood vessels (e.g., to combat pathogens into adjacent tissues). Tumor cells also exploit CD44 molecules in order to metastasize (spread throughout the body’s tissue from a…

An adhesion molecule (protein) imbedded in the outer wall (envelope) of human immune system and brain cells that functions as the receptor (door to entry into the cell) for the HIV (AIDS) virus. The gpl20 envelope glycoprotein of the HIV (i.e., AIDS virus) directly interacts with the CD4 protein on the surface of helper T…

A promoter (sequence of DNA) that is often utilized in genetic engineering to control expression of (inserted) gene; i.e., synthesis of desired protein in a plant.  

The site (geometric area) on an enzyme molecule (or other catalyst) that is actually involved in the catalytic process. The catalytic site usually consists of a small portion of the total area of the enzyme.  

An antibody that is produced (e.g., via monoclonal antibody techniques) in response to a carefully selected antigen (e.g., target molecule in bloodstream, or molecule involved in chemical reaction of interest) which itself catalyzes the “splitting” of a molecule in the bloodstream (e.g., heroin into two harmless small molecules) or mimics: Restriction endonucleases that cleave (cut)…

Common in bacteria. The decreased expression of catabolic enzymes as brought about by a catabolite such as glucose. For example, glucose is the preferred fuel source for certain bacteria and when it is present in the culture medium it represses the formation of enzymes that are required for the utilization of other fuel sugars, such…

A “package” of genetic material (containing more than one gene) that is inserted into the genome of a cell via gene splicing techniques. May include promoter(s), leader sequence, termination codon, etc. A device used in radiography for holding a sheet of x-ray film and a set of screens. The cassette may also have a grid.…

Compounds produced by the body which also have immunosuppressive activity.  

The selective, deliberate alteration/creation of carbohydrates (and the oligosaccharide side chains of glycoprotein molecules) by man.  

An antineoplastic (i.e., anticancer) low molecular weight polymer that acts against several types of cancer tumors, perhaps via stimulation of the patient’s immune system. It has minimal toxicity.