How Do You Spell CD4?

Pronunciation: [sˌiːdˈiː fˈɔː] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "CD4" can be explained using the IPA phonetic transcription. The letters "CD" are pronounced as /siːdiː/ and represent the surface protein found on the surface of some immune system cells. Meanwhile, the number "4" is pronounced as /fɔː/ and refers to the specific cell subgroup that expresses the CD4 receptor. This receptor is important for the immune system to recognize and fight off infections. So, the spelling of "CD4" represents both the surface protein and the specific cell subgroup in the immune system.

CD4 Meaning and Definition

  1. CD4 is a medical term that primarily refers to a type of glycoprotein found on the surface of immune cells, specifically T-helper lymphocytes or T-cells. It stands for "cluster of differentiation 4" and is also commonly known as the CD4 antigen or CD4 receptor.

    The CD4 protein acts as a receptor for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), allowing the virus to enter and infect T-cells. The level of CD4 cells in the blood is used as a crucial marker for assessing the health of an individual's immune system, particularly in the context of HIV infection and AIDS progression.

    In a broader context, CD4 cells have a vital role in the adaptive immune response system, as they play a crucial role in coordinating other immune cells to mount an effective response against infections and diseases. They act as a link between the innate and adaptive immune systems, facilitating communication between various immune cells.

    In clinical settings, the CD4 count is often measured through laboratory tests, providing an indication of the number of CD4 cells in a given volume of blood. It is an essential measurement in the management of HIV infection and is used to determine the stage of disease progression, guide treatment decisions, and monitor the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy.

    Overall, CD4 is a significant marker and receptor involved in immune system functioning and specifically associated with HIV infection and the assessment of immune health.

Common Misspellings for CD4

  • xcd4
  • cxd4
  • vcd4
  • dcd4
  • cdd4
  • cdx4
  • cdf4
  • cd54
  • cd45
  • cd44
  • c d4

Etymology of CD4

The word "CD4" is an abbreviation for "cluster of differentiation 4". The term "cluster of differentiation" was originally used to describe groups or clusters of surface molecules found on the surface of white blood cells, which were identified using specific antibodies. These surface molecules are involved in various functions and help in classifying different types of immune cells. CD4 specifically refers to a glycoprotein found on the surface of helper T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune response. The numbering system for CD molecules was established in the 1980s by an international committee to avoid confusion and provide uniform nomenclature.

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