What does the prefix suffix lysis mean?

Updated August 05, 2019. The suffix (-lysis) refers to decomposition, dissolution, destruction, loosening, breaking down, separation, or disintegration.

How does lysis happen?

Cytolysis, or osmotic lysis, occurs when a cell bursts due to an osmotic imbalance that has caused excess water to diffuse into the cell. Water can enter the cell by diffusion through the cell membrane or through selective membrane channels called aquaporins, which greatly facilitate the flow of water.

Do viruses lyse human cells?

Cell lysis is a common outcome of viral infection. It consists of a disruption of cellular membranes, leading to cell death and the release of cytoplasmic compounds in the extracellular space. Lysis is actively induced by many viruses, because cells seldom trigger lysis on their own.

What is the medical dictionary definition of lysis?

1. Biochemistry The dissolution or destruction of cells, such as blood cells or bacteria, as by the action of a specific lysin that disrupts the cell membrane. 2. Medicine The gradual subsiding of the symptoms of an acute disease. The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2007, 2004 by Houghton Mifflin Company.

How is lysis therapy used to treat blood clots?

Lysis therapy is an approach in which vascular specialists deliver clot-dissolving drugs directly to the site of the clot through a catheter. During this procedure doctors insert the catheter, a very thin tube sometimes tipped with surgical equipment, through an artery in the groin to the site of the clot.

How is chemical lysis used to treat cell cavitation?

Chemical lysis chemically deteriorate/solubilize the proteins and lipids present within the membrane of targeted cells. This method uses ultrasonic waves to generate areas of high and low pressure which causes cavitation and in turn, cell lysis. Though this method usually comes out clean, it fails to be cost effective and consistent.

Why do cell cultures need to be subjected to lysis?

In molecular biology, biochemistry, and cell biology laboratories, cell cultures may be subjected to lysis in the process of purifying their components, as in protein purification, DNA extraction, RNA extraction, or in purifying organelles.