Cytothera > Scientific Information > Glossary

GLOSSARY

Adipocyte

Fat cell.

Adult Stem Cell

Undifferentiated cell present in differentiated tissues. Cell capable of auto-renewal and (within certain limitations) of differentiating into all the types of cells present in the tissue from which it originates.

Allogeneic

Two or more individuals (or cell lines) are said to be allogeneic in relation to each other when the genes in each organism, in one or more loci, have a different sequence.

Allogeneic or heterologous Transplant

Transplanted cell, tissue or organ from a member of the same species, but with a different genetic constitution.

Amnios

The innermost intra-uterine membrane involving fetus and amniotic fluid.

Antibody

A protein, in the form of a Y, excreted by B cells in response to an antigen. The antibody binds itself specifically to the antigen that induced its production. The antibodies directed towards antigens on the surface of infectious agents help eliminate these organisms from the body.

Antigen

A substance (frequently a protein) that induces the formation of antibodies. Antigens are normally found on the surface of infectious organisms, transplanted blood cells and transplanted organs.

Antigen-Presenting Cells (APCs)

A variety of cells that present antigens on their surface in a way that is recognized by T cells.

Apoptosis

Genetically programmed cell death.

Astrocytes

Cells of the nervous tissue.

Autoimmune Disease

Disease that arises from T cell and/or antibodies attacking the bodies own cells or tissues.

Autologous Transplant

Transplanted tissue originating from the receptor. This type of transplant helps avoid complications related to immune rejection.