Cytochemistry

/ˌsaɪtəˈkɛmɪstri/ noun

Definition

The branch of biology that studies the chemical composition and chemical reactions within cells, using staining and analytical techniques.

Etymology

From Greek 'kytos' (cell) + 'chemistry.' Established as a distinct field in the early 1900s when microscopy met analytical chemistry.

Kelly Says

Cytochemistry pioneers used colored dyes that bind to specific molecules—basically creating a chemical treasure map inside cells—and this technique was so powerful it became the foundation for immunofluorescence imaging that scientists still use today!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.