Biology key terms

The process of determining which disease or pathogen is present.

A sequence of choices based on observable features used to identify an organism.

The measured size of an object as it appears in a diagram, photograph or micrograph.

An antibody fixed in position on the test strip, where it captures the target or an antibody–target complex.

An immune response in which transplanted cells from another person are recognised as non-self and attacked.

The body's cells, tissues and processes that recognise and defend against pathogens and their harmful products.

The process of producing immunity or increased resistance to an infectious disease, commonly through vaccination.

The ability to respond quickly to a particular pathogen following previous exposure to its antigens.

A medicine that reduces the activity of the immune system, helping to prevent rejection of transplanted tissue.

Treatment that reduces the activity of the immune system, often used to lower the risk of transplant rejection.

The attachment of an early embryo to the lining of the uterus.

Breeding between organisms that are closely related genetically.

The number of new cases of a disease occurring in a population during a stated period.

Keeping a culture under suitable conditions, including an appropriate temperature, so that microorganisms can grow.

The time between infection by a pathogen and the appearance of symptoms.

The factor deliberately changed in an investigation.

A substance that changes colour over a particular pH range.

A species whose presence, absence or abundance provides evidence about environmental conditions, such as pollution.

A single living thing.

The invasion and reproduction of a pathogen within a host.

A conclusion drawn from observations rather than something directly observed.

A condition in which a person or couple has difficulty conceiving a child naturally.

A state of illness, weakness or poor health, especially one that is persistent.

Permission given voluntarily after a person has understood what a study involves, including its possible risks and benefits.

The transmission of genetic information from parents to their offspring.

A feature that can be passed from parents to offspring through genes.

A genetic condition passed from parents to offspring through alleles.