Dictionary

serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase See aspartate aminotransferase.

serum 1 The clear liquid that can be separated from clotted blood. Serum differs from plasma, the liquid portion of normal unclotted blood, which contains the red cells, white cells, and platelets. The clot makes the difference between serum and plasma. 2 Any normal or pathological fluid that resembles serum, as, for example, the fluid…

serous membrane The tissue that lines the cavities containing the lungs (pleural cavity) and heart (pericardial cavity), the cavity containing most of the abdominal organs (peritoneal cavity), and that covers the surfaces of many internal organs. Serous membranes act as a protective lining by providing a lubricating fluid that reduces friction forces between internal organs….

serotype A subdivision of a particular species of microorganism characterized by identification of recognizable antigens on its surface.

serotonin A neurotransmitter that is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses. Serotonin can trigger the release of substances in the blood vessels of the brain that in turn cause the pain of migraine. Serotonin is also key to mood regulation; pain perception; gastrointestinal function, including perception of hunger and satiety; and other physical functions.

serositis Inflammation of the serous tissues of the body (the tissues that line the lungs, heart, abdomen, and inner abdominal organs).

seroconversion The development of detectable antibodies in the blood that are directed against an infectious agent. Antibodies do not usually develop until some time after the initial exposure to the agent. Following seroconversion, a person tests positive for the antibody when given tests that are based on the presence of antibodies, such as ELISA.

SERM Selective estrogen-receptor modulator.

sequencing Determining the order of nucleotides (base sequences) in a DNA or RNA molecule, or determining the order of amino acids in a protein.

septum, ventricular The wall between the two lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart. Also known as interventricular septum.

septum, nasal The dividing wall that runs down the middle of the nose, creating two nasal passages, each ending in a nostril.

septum, interventricular See septum, ventricular.