Featured Glossary Term
Adenovirus
Any of a group of DNA-containing viruses that cause conjunctivitis and upper respiratory tract infections in humans.
Adrenaline
A hormone secreted by the adrenal medulla that is released into the bloodstream in response to physical or mental stress. Can lead to increased blood pressure and heart action.
Albumin
A class of water-soluble proteins that can be coagulated by heat and are found in egg white, blood serum, milk, and other animal and plant tissues.
Allele
One member of a pair or series of genes that occupy a specific position on a specific chromosome.
Alpha-fetoprotein
A protein produced in the liver of a fetus that can appear in certain diseases of adults. Its level in a pregnant woman's blood can be used in the detection of certain fetal abnormalities.
Amniocentesis
A procedure in which a sample of amniotic fluid is drawn out of the uterus through a needle inserted in the abdomen, used to detect genetic abnormalities or the baby's sex.
Amnion
A thin, tough, membranous sac that encloses the embryo or fetus of a mammal, bird, or reptile. It is filled with a serous fluid in which the embryo is suspended.
Amniotic
Of or related to the amnion or characterized by developing an amnion; "amniotic membrane"
Anemia
A pathological deficiency in the oxygen-carrying component of the blood, measured in unit volume concentrations of hemoglobin, red blood cell volume, or red blood cell number.
Anencephaly
Congenital absence of most of the brain.
