Dictionary > Osmotic lysis

Osmotic lysis

Definition
noun
The bursting or rupturing of cell membrane due to osmotic movement of water into the cell when the cell is in a hypotonic environment.
Supplement
Osmotic lysis occurs in animal cells and certain bacteria. When the cells are in a hypotonic environment, the water tends to move into the cell. When the cell membrane cannot hold the excessive influx of water, the cell membrane ruptures.
Osmotic lysis does not occur in plant cells because of the cell wall that contains the turgor pressure.
Word origin: osmotic ยป osmosis + New Latin, from Greek lusis, a loosening.
Synonym: cytolysis.

See also: osmosis.


You will also like...

Chromosome Mutations
Chromosome Mutations

Mutations can also influence the phenotype of an organism. This tutorial looks at the effects of chromosomal mutations, ..

Biosecurity and Biocontrol
Biosecurity and Biocontrol

This lesson explores the impact of biosecurity threats, and why they need to be identified and managed. Examples to incl..

bryophyte - sporophyte and gametophyte
Meiosis and Alternation of Generations

Plants are characterized by having alternation of generations in their life cycles. This tutorial is a review of plant m..

Physical growth
Physical Development in Humans

This tutorial elaborates on the physical development of humans, particularly from puberty to adulthood. Read this tutori..

Young plant growing from the soil.
Soils

Nutrients in the soil are essential to the proper growth of a land plant. This tutorial deals with the properties of soi..

Buttress roots
Roots

This study guide tackles plant roots in greater detail. It delves into the development of plant roots, the root structur..

Related Articles...

No related articles found

See all Related Topics