[ hormone ] A substance that acts as a signal between organs and tissue to regulate physiology and behaviour. Hormones are secreted directly into the circulatory system by specialised cells in glands and other organs. They regulate metabolic activities, growth… Read More »Hormone
The enzymatic cleavage of chemical bonds involving water. For instance, amylose is hydrolysed into glucose in the presence of amylase, a digestive enzyme.
[ Hypothalamus ] A region of the brain that controls the autonomic nervous system and links to the endocrine system via the pituitary gland. The hypothalamus is located below the thalamus, just above the brain stem, and is responsible for a… Read More »Hypothalamus
[ Iatrogenetic, Iatrogenesis ] An unintended condition or effect on patient brought about by medical treatment or advice. Complications due to surgery, adverse drug affects and medical malpractice are iatrogenic. From the Greek ἰατρός (iatros, “healer”) and γένεσις (genesis, “origin”).… Read More »Iatrogenetic
[ stub ] Also see: Innate Immune System Adaptive immune system
[ Immunoglobulin A, IgA, sIgA ] Immunoglobulin A (IgA or sIgA) is an antibody, functionally part of the adaptive immune system, that defends the mucous membranes. It represents about 15% of total immunoglobulins produced. sIgA is the secretory version of… Read More »Immunoglobulin A (IgA )
[ immunoglobulin E, IgE] Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is an antibody in mammals, functionally a part of the adaptive immune system to fight off parasites such as flukes and worms. It is produced by plasma cells and only represents o.o5% of… Read More »Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
[ Immunoglobulin G, IgG ] Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most common antibody and functionally part of the adaptive immune system. They are created by plasma B cells and represent about 3/4 of the antibodies released into the bloodstream.
[ Innate immune system ] A complex defence strategy that dispatches specialised chemicals to the infected area of the body. It also removes dead or damaged tissue and foreign substances such as toxins and pathogens. The innate immune system is… Read More »Innate Immune System
[ Inorganic_Nutrient ] A nutrient comprised of non-organic compounds such as minerals.