Biology Dictionary

  • Hilum (pl hila)

    Hilum (pl hila)

    The part of an organ, such as a seed or a kidney, where blood vessels, nerves, and other structures enter or exit.

  • Hinge joint

    Hinge joint

    A type of joint that allows movement in one plane, like the elbow or knee, enabling flexion and extension.

  • Histamine

    Histamine

    A chemical involved in immune responses, particularly inflammation and allergic reactions, which causes blood vessels to dilate.

  • Histidine (his or h)

    Histidine (his or h)

    An amino acid that is important in enzyme function and as a precursor to histamine.

  • Histocompatibility antigens

    Histocompatibility antigens

    Molecules present on the surface of cells that help the immune system recognize foreign versus self cells, playing a key role in organ transplantation.

  • Histologist

    Histologist

    A scientist who specializes in the study of tissues, typically through the use of microscopy.

  • Histology

    Histology

    The study of the structure and function of tissues at the microscopic level.

  • Histones

    Histones

    Proteins that help package and organize DNA into a compact structure known as chromatin, playing a role in gene regulation.

  • Histotomy

    Histotomy

    The dissection or cutting of tissues for examination or research purposes.

  • Hiv

    Hiv

    Human immunodeficiency virus, the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) by attacking the immune system.