Friday, January 27, 2012

Glycocalyx:one way to put it is a "sugar coat" a better explanation is a network of polysaccarides that rise from cellular surfaces (bacteria). It serves as a slimey layer to prevent bacterium by creating capsules, or allowing the bacterium to attach itself to vulnerable surfaces (like teeth or your lungs e.gStreptococcus Pneumoniae which attaches itself to lung cells).

The glycocalyx can be found just outside the cell wall of a bacterium.Glycocalyx is very helpful when it comes to protect bacteria from phagocytes. When a certain amount is layered, it can be known as biofilm.

"The slime on the outside of a fish is considered to be glycocalyx."

Desiccation: State of extreme dryness

" The desiccation of the small town's lake, caused a great dehydration for the people."





Viscous: Thick, heavy, sticky fluid with very slow flow movement

"People who have asthma usually blame it on thick and viscous mucous."





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