Parabiosis

Pronunciation
/par-ah-bye-OH-sis/
Category
Experimental biology
Singular
Parabiosis
Plural
Parabioses

Definition

The anatomical and physiological joining of two organisms either naturally or artificially, especially the union of two animals for experimental purposes in biomedical research.

Etymology

Example

In experimental biology, scientists may create parabiosis between two mice to study the effects of blood-borne factors on aging.

Related Terms

Usage Notes

Parabiosis can involve the connection of circulatory systems, allowing exchange of blood and metabolites between the animals.