Hemolysin (Noun)
Meaning
Any substance that can cause lysis (destruction) of erythrocytes (red blood cells) and the release of their hemoglobin.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The toxin produced by certain strains of E. coli acts as a hemolysin, breaking down red blood cells and causing severe anemia.
- Researchers have identified a hemolysin in the venom of the inland taipan snake that is capable of killing a human being within 45 minutes.
- Streptolysin, a hemolysin produced by the Streptococcus bacterium, is responsible for the red blood cell destruction seen in streptococcal infections.
- The parasite that causes malaria produces a hemolysin that ruptures the host's red blood cells, leading to severe anemia and other complications.
- Certain species of sea slugs have been found to produce a hemolysin that helps them digest the red blood cells of their prey.