a Related Biological Terms

[Latin, an embracing] form of sexual reproduction seen in frogs wherein the male grasps the female from behind and externally fertilizes the eggs as they are deposited.

The production of many DNA copies from one or a few copies.

A highly sensitive method for detecting polymorphisms in DNA. Following restriction enzyme digestion of DNA, a subset of DNA fragments is selected for PCR amplification and visualisation.

A small glass vial sealed after filling (chiefly used as a container for a hypodermic injection solution).

upper region of the mammalian oviduct, near the ovary. Fertilization typically takes place in this region.

The enlarged bases of the semicircular canals in the inner ear, lined with hair cells that detect fluid movement and convert it into action potentials.

See atomic mass unit.

Located in the middle of the brain, this almond shaped complex of related nuclei is a critical processor area for the senses. Connected to the hippocampus, it plays a role in emotionally laden memories. It contains a huge number of opiate receptor sites implicated in rage, fear and sexual feelings. It is part of the limbic system.From: http://www.buffalostate.edu/orgs/bcp/brainbasics/gloss.html

A digestive enzyme produced largely by the pancreas and salivary glands that converts starches to sugars. Abnormally high levels of amylase in the blood or urine may be found in patients with inflammation of the pancreas or salivary glands (mumps).

Amyloid refers to abnormal fibrous, extracellular, proteinaceous deposits in organs and tissues. Amyloid is insoluble and is structurally dominated by a β-sheet structure. Amyloids are aggregates of proteins characterized by a fibrillar morphology of 7–13 nm in diameter, a β-sheet secondary structure (known as cross-β), and the ability to be stained by particular dyes, such as Congo red. Amyloid formation involves a misfolding protein reaction. Amyloid fibrils are generally stable and relatively insoluble in native, aqueous buffers. In a way, amyloid is a foreign substance composed of self-proteins, but it is not easily recognized and removed as a foreign substance by the immune system for reasons that are not well understood. Secondary amyloid consists of the protein AA (amyloid A), an 8.5 kDa protein that is heterogeneous (at the amino terminal end).