Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

opsonize

verb

/ˈɒpsənaɪz/

Definition

To make a pathogen or foreign particle more susceptible to phagocytosis by marking it with opsonins.

Examples

The immune system opsonizes bacteria to facilitate their elimination by macrophages.
In the presence of antibodies, the body can opsonize viruses, enhancing their uptake by immune cells.

Meaning

Opsonization is a biological process that improves the ability of immune cells to recognize and destroy harmful invaders by coating them with specific molecules.