Agglutinate

Definition

Agglutinate refers to the clumping together of particles, such as cells or bacteria, usually in response to an antigen-antibody reaction. This process is a crucial part of the immune response and can be used in various diagnostic tests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Agglutination is often used in blood typing tests to identify blood groups.
2. It involves the interaction between antigens on cell surfaces and specific antibodies.
3. Agglutination reactions can be visible to the naked eye, making them useful for rapid diagnostic purposes.
4. The strength of agglutination depends on factors like antibody concentration and temperature.
5. Certain pathogens can cause agglutination, aiding in their identification during infections.

Related terms

Antigen:

A substance that induces an immune response by stimulating the production of antibodies.

Antibody:

A protein produced by B-cells in response to a specific antigen; it binds to that antigen.

Hypersensitivity:

An exaggerated immune response to an antigen, which can lead to tissue damage.