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icterus
A yellow discoloration of mucous membranes and skin due to high concentrations of bilirubin in blood and tissues. The same as jaundice.
ideopathic
Of unknown cause. An ideopathic disease is one for which the cause has not been determined.
ileum
The terminal section of the small intestine.
implantation
The first intimate association of the embryo with maternal tissue. The first step in the process of placentation.
in situ
In the natural or normal place. In situ hybridization refers to conducting a hybridization reaction within cells or tissues.
in vitro
Outside of a living system. Literally means in glass, although in most laboratories today, in vitro reactions take place in plastic vessels. For example, in vitro fertilization is fertilization outside the body or test tube fertilization. Opposite of in vivo.
in vivo
Within the living body. An in vivo reaction occurs within a living organism. Opposite of in vitro.
ingesta
Food and drink taken into the stomach and intestines.
ingestion
The act of taking food or other materials into the mouth.
insulin
A protein hormone produced by the pancreas that has important effects in regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.
insulin-like growth factors
Polypeptide hormones synthesized by many tissues. Insulin-like growth factor-1 synthesis is stimulated by growth hormone.
inter-
Prefix meaning between. An intercellular substance is between cells
interstitial
Located within the "spaces" in tissue; typically between major structures.
interstitial cell stimulating hormone
Another name for luteinizing hormone.
intestine
A section of the digestive system; includes both small intestine (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) and large intestine (colon, cecum and rectum).
intra-
Prefix meaning within or inside. An intracellular structure is inside a cell.
intrinsic factor
A glycoprotein secreted from the lining of the stomach involved in the absorption of vitamin B12.
iodine pump or trap
Synonyms for the sodium-iodide symporter, an ion transporter that allows the thyroid gland to concentrate iodide from blood for manufacture of thyroid hormones.
islets of Langerhans
Clusters of cells in the pancreas that contain cells which secrete the hormones insulin and glucagon.
isoschizomer
A restriction endonuclease that has the same recognition sequence as another restriction endonuclease.

Last updated on 10/2/2004