220 OLIVE OILS AND HEALTH GLOSSARY: DEFINITIONS OF TECHNICAL TERMS (This glossary provides clear and accessible definitions of key scientific and medical terms used throughout the chapters, where they appear in italics.) ABSCESSES Collection of pus caused by a bacterial infection occurring either within or on the surface of an organic tissue. The surrounding area is typically swollen and inflamed. α-1 ACID GLYCOPROTEIN Although a variety of biological functions have been proposed for α-1 acid glycoprotein, its true physiological role is not well understood. This glycoprotein can bind to a wide range of lipid-related molecules, such as hormones (progesterone, etc.), medications, drugs, and others. It is an early-phase inflammatory protein, and its plasma concentration increases in both acute and chronic inflammation. It also helps protect tissues from damage caused by inflammation. Glucocorticoids, whether produced in excess by the body or administered as treatment (prednisone, dexamethasone, etc.), also raise α-1 acid glycoprotein levels. Low levels of α-1 acid glycoprotein are associated with nephrotic syndrome. Blood levels may also decrease in women taking oral contraceptives. ACRYLAMIDE Acrylamide is a chemical compound that forms in food during cooking or processing at high temperatures (such as frying, toasting, or baking, as well as during industrial processes at 120 °C and low humidity). It forms mainly in starch-rich foods and is responsible for the characteristic browning and appetising aroma of some cooked products. Acrylamide is also present in tobacco smoke. Prolonged consumption may pose health risks, and it is classified as a probable human carcinogen. ACYLGLYCERIDES (See LIPIDS / Concepts / Glycerides) ADAPTIVE OR SPECIFIC IMMUNITY (See IMMUNE SYSTEM) ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE (ATP) A molecule that serves as the main energy currency of the cell. Energy is released when ATP is hydrolysed (broken down into smaller components) into ADP and inorganic phosphate during cellular processes. ADIPOGENESIS The formation of adipocytes, the cells that make up adipose tissue and are specialised in storing large amounts of fat. In addition to serving as fat, and thus energy, storage, they also help insulate the body, protect internal organs, and produce key hormones involved in regulating food intake.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Njg1MjYx