Acapsular is a term that is used in different fields like microbiology, medicine, and biology. It is a term that is not commonly known, but it has a significant meaning in these fields. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, meaning in different dictionaries, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of acapsular.
Definitions
Acapsular is an adjective that is used to describe microorganisms that do not have a capsule. A capsule is a layer of polysaccharides that surrounds some bacteria and protects them from the host’s immune system. Acapsular bacteria are more vulnerable to the host’s immune system, which means they are less virulent.
Origin
The word acapsular is derived from the prefix “a-” which means not or without, and the word “capsule” which refers to a layer that surrounds some bacteria. The word first appeared in the mid-20th century in the field of microbiology.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Acapsular is not a commonly used word, and it is not found in many dictionaries. However, it can be found in some medical and scientific dictionaries. The Merriam-Webster Medical Dictionary defines acapsular as “not having a capsule.” The Oxford Dictionary of English defines acapsular as “not having a capsule.”
Associations
Acapsular bacteria are associated with lower virulence compared to encapsulated bacteria. This is because the capsule protects the bacteria from the host’s immune system. Acapsular bacteria are more vulnerable to the host’s immune system, which means they are less virulent. Acapsular bacteria are also associated with a higher susceptibility to antibiotics.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms of acapsular, including non-capsulated, non-encapsulated, uncapsulated, and unencapsulated.
Antonyms
The antonyms of acapsular are encapsulated, capsulated, and encased.
The same root words
Acapsular does not have any root words as it is a combination of the prefix “a-” and the word “capsule.”
Example Sentences
- The acapsular bacteria were more susceptible to the host’s immune system.
- The antibiotic was effective against the acapsular bacteria.
- The acapsular strain of bacteria was less virulent than the encapsulated strain.
- The non-capsulated bacteria were easily destroyed by the host’s immune system.