Definition

A category of microorganisms that share a specific set of antigens, which are substances that trigger an immune response.

Example

The laboratory identified the serotype of the bacteria to determine the best treatment.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new research on the serotype of that bacteria?

Yeah, I read that it has some unique antigens that make it different.

It's fascinating how they can identify each serotype so precisely.

Definitely! Understanding those differences can really help in treatment.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To classify an organism based on its serotype, which is a distinct variation within a species identified by its immune response to specific antigens.

Example

Researchers serotype the bacteria to determine which strain is causing the outbreak.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the new lab results?

Yeah, they serotype the bacteria to see which strain it is.

That sounds interesting! How do they even do that?

Root Explanation

Serotype → It is formed from "sero-" (from Latin "serum", meaning serum or fluid) and "type" (from Greek "typos", meaning impression or model). The word refers to a classification based on the type of serum or antibodies present in a sample.

Memory Tip

Think of 'serum' ('sero-') which is a fluid that contains antibodies, and 'type' which means a classification. This helps you remember that a serotype is a classification based on the type of serum.

Visually Confused Words