Lactate, also known as lactic acid or 2-hydroxypropanoic acid, is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula CH3CH(OH)COOH. It is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, meaning it is produced when cells break down glucose for energy in the absence of oxygen. During intense physical activity or when oxygen supply is limited, such as during strenuous […]
Glossary
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Hydrogel
A hydrogel is a network of polymer chains that are hydrophilic, meaning they have a strong affinity for water. These polymer chains can absorb and retain large amounts of water within their structure while maintaining their three-dimensional network. Hydrogels can be synthesized from natural or synthetic polymers, or a combination of both. Hydrogels have a […]
Glycerol
Glycerol, also known as glycerin, is a simple polyol compound that is colorless, odorless, and viscous. It is a key building block of triglycerides, which are the main constituents of fats and oils. Glycerol is a trihydric alcohol, meaning it contains three hydroxyl (OH) groups. It is soluble in water and is sweet-tasting. Glycerol has […]
Glucagon
Glucagon is a peptide hormone produced by the alpha cells of the pancreas. It plays a crucial role in regulating blood glucose levels. Glucagon acts in opposition to insulin, another pancreatic hormone, by stimulating the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose and releasing it into the bloodstream. This process, known as glycogenolysis, helps raise […]
Exosomes
Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles (EVs) that are released by cells into the extracellular environment. These vesicles are generated through the endosomal pathway and are typically around 30-150 nanometers in diameter. Exosomes contain various biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, nucleic acids (including RNA and DNA), and metabolites. Functions of exosomes include: Here are some AI […]
Dialysates
Dialysates are solutions used in the process of dialysis. Dialysates are formulated to mimic the composition of normal plasma while lacking waste products that accumulate in the blood due to kidney dysfunction. Dialysates typically contain electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and bicarbonate in concentrations that mimic those found in healthy plasma. The composition of […]
Cytokines
Cytokines are a broad and diverse group of small proteins that play crucial roles in cell signaling and communication within the immune system and other physiological processes. They are produced by various cell types, including immune cells such as macrophages, T cells, and B cells, as well as endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and others. There are […]
Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells in the body. It is formed from the breakdown of heme, a component of hemoglobin found in red blood cells. Throughout the 20th century, advancements in analytical chemistry and clinical laboratory techniques led to improved methods for measuring bilirubin levels in blood […]
AST
The lab term “AST” commonly refers to “Aspartate Aminotransferase,” which is an enzyme found in various tissues throughout the body. AST testing is often performed alongside Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) testing to evaluate liver health comprehensively.
ALT
ALT stands for Alanine Aminotransferase, which is an enzyme found primarily in the liver. ALT testing is commonly performed to assess liver health.