Acapsular

/eɪˈkæpsuːlər/ adjective

Definition

Lacking a capsule or the tissue sheath that normally surrounds an organ or structure.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (without) + 'capsula' (small box, from Latin). The prefix negates the presence of the protective capsule structure.

Kelly Says

Certain bacteria are acapsular, making them more vulnerable to immune attacks, while their capsule-producing cousins are often highly pathogenic—the capsule is like a bacterial invisibility cloak.

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