opsonization
Pronunciation: ahp-suh-nuh-ZAY-shuhn
The process of coating pathogens with antibodies or complement proteins to enhance phagocytosis by immune cells.
Full Definition
An immune mechanism whereby microorganisms are marked for destruction by coating them with opsonins (primarily antibodies and complement proteins) that facilitate recognition and engulfment by phagocytes. In pediatric immunology, defective opsonization due to antibody deficiencies or complement disorders leads to recurrent bacterial infections, particularly with encapsulated organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae. Assessment of opsonization capacity is used to evaluate immune function in children with recurrent infections.
Usage
Usage note: British spelling 'opsonisation' is also acceptable; ensure consistent usage throughout documents.
In Context
- "Impaired opsonization of pneumococci was demonstrated in the patient with complement C3 deficiency." — immunology laboratory report
- "The opsonization assay revealed functional antibodies against Haemophilus influenzae following vaccination." — vaccine response assessment