Author: Glossary

The complex of proteins and nucleic acids found in the cell nucleus. A combination of proteins and nucleic acids. Complexes made up of nucleic acid and protein. These two substances are apparently not linked by strong chemical bonds, but are held together by salt linkages and other weak bonds. Most viruses consist entirely of nucleoproteins,…

Viral infection similar to that first reported in Norwalk, USA which causes intestinal illness that occurs in outbreaks.  

Widely used technique for detecting mRNAs by hybridisation with specific probes following transfer of RNA onto a solid support, such as a nylon membrane; see mRNA, RNA, hybridisation. A research test/methodology used to transfer RNA fragments from an agarose gel (e.g., following gel electrophoresis) to a filter paper without changing the relative positions of the…

Chemical prefix to the name of a compound, indicating: (1) one methyl (CH3) group has been replaced by hydrogen (e.g. noradrenaline can be considered to be a demethylated derivative of adrenaline); (2) an analogue of a compound containing one fewer methylene (CH2) groups than the parent compound; (3) an isomer with an unbranched side-chain (e.g.…

Those polysaccharides other than starches, found in foods. They are the major part of dietary fibre and can be measured more precisely than total dietary fibre; include cellulose, pectins, glucans, gums, mucilages, inulin, and chitin (and exclude lignin).  

Free fatty acids in the blood, as opposed to triacylglycerols.  

An oligosaccharide that is not digested (or minimally digested) in the upper gastrointestinal tract.  

With respect to food additives, the maximum dose of an additive that has no detectable adverse effects.  

With respect to food additives, equivalent to No Effect Level.  

Are a group of chemicals that occur ubiquitously. They are formed in the environment and can be absorbed from food, water, air and industrial and consumer products, formed within the body from precursors in food, water and air, inhaled from tobacco smoke, and naturally occurring.