HealthAugust 28, 2026

glycation

gly-KAY-shun

Definition

The non-enzymatic bonding of a sugar molecule to a protein or lipid molecule, which can lead to structural changes in tissues like the skin.

Etymology

The term is derived from the Greek 'glykys' meaning 'sweet,' combined with the chemical suffix '-ation' indicating a process. It entered scientific terminology to describe the biochemical reactions involving sugars.

In the news

In the article, the author lists glycation as one of the factors that can affect the density of collagen in the skin over time, contributing to changes in texture and thickness.

Reading the Skin: What the Body’s Largest Organ Reports About Everything Else

Read the full article ↗

WorldHealth.net

Related words

downregulated

To reduce the rate, intensity, or expression of a biological process or cellular function.

Health

endothelial

Relating to the endothelium, the thin, specialized layer of cells that lines the interior…

Health

ferritin

A protein in the body that stores iron and releases it in a controlled fashion.

Health

glycaemic

Relating to the level of glucose or sugar present in the blood.

Health

microvascular

Relating to the smallest blood vessels in the body, such as capillaries and arterioles,…

Health

pruritus

A formal medical term for the sensation of severe or persistent itching of the skin.

Health

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.