Glossary

D

DNA sequencing

DNA sequencing is the determination of the order of building blocks within a DNA molecule.

Droplet infection

In droplet infection, pathogens are spread via larger liquid droplets, such as those produced when coughing, that come into contact with another person’s mucous membranes.
 

Dysbiosis

Dysbiosis refers to an unfavorable change in the composition or function of the microbiome that may be associated with health problems.
 

E

Ebola

Ebola is a severe infectious disease caused by Ebola viruses and can be life-threatening.

Elephantiasis

Elephantiasis is a disease that is characterized by grossly swellings of body parts due to impaired lymph drainage.

Elite controler

"Elite controllers" are very rare people with HIV infection who can control viral load spontaneously without antiretroviral drugs.

endemic

“Endemic” means for example in epidemiology that a disease is constantly at an elevated level in a particular region or population.

Endotoxin

Endotoxins are components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria that can trigger strong reactions from the innate immune system.

Enterobacteriaceae

Enterobacteria are bacteria belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae. They include both natural inhabitants of the gut and important pathogens.

Epidemiology

Epidemiology investigates the occurrence and distribution of diseases within the population. Moreover, molecular biology techniques are used in molecular epidemiology.