Category: T
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Tetany
Over-sensitivity of motor nerves to stimuli; particularly affects face, hands, and feet. Caused by reduction in the level of ionised calcium in the bloodstream and can accompany severe rickets Nervous condition characterized by sharp, painful, periodic muscle contractions, particularly those of the extremities. Hyperexcitability of nerves and muscles resulting from low serum calcium levels; a…
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Taurine
A derivative of the amino acid cysteine (aminoethane sulphonic acid). Known to be a dietary essential for cats (deficient kittens are blind) and possibly essential for human beings, since the capacity for synthesis is limited, although deficiency has never been observed. In addition to its role in the eye and nervous system it is important…
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Taste
The tongue can distinguish five separate tastes: sweet, salt, sour (or acid), bitter, and savoury (sometimes called umami, from the Japanese word for a savoury flavour), due to stimulation of the taste buds. The overall taste or flavour of foods is due to these tastes, together with astringency in the mouth, texture, and aroma. To…
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Taq DNA polymerase
A thermophilic bacterial enzyme that catalyses the synthesis of double- stranded DNA, utilised in PCR. A 94 kilodalton DNA polymerase, which was originally isolated from the thermophilic bacteria Thermus aquaticus. Commonly utilized to catalyze PGR reactions due to its heat resistance (needed for thermal cycles utilized in the PGR technique).
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Tanner standard
Tables of height and weight for age used as reference values for the assessment of growth and nutritional status in children, based on data collected in England in the 1960s. Now largely replaced by the NCHS (US National Center for Health Statistics) standards.
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Tagatose
Isomer of fructose (D-lyxo-2-hexulose) obtained by hydrolysis of plant gums and used as a bulk sweetener; 14-times as sweet as sucrose. Not metabolised to any significant extent, so does not raise blood sugar and has zero energy yield.
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Tachyphagia
Rapid eating.
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T4
Thyroxine (tetra-iodothyronine), one of the thyroid hormones.
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T3
Tri-iodothyronine, one of the thyroid hormones.
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Tyramine
A sympathomimetic amine that acts by displacing stored transmitter from adrenergic axonal terminals. Tyramine is a constituent of many foods, such as green beans, cheese, and red wine, and the amine is normally degraded by monoamine oxidase enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract when these foods are ingested. Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) must restrict…