haemolysin
/ˌhiːməˈlaɪsɪn/
noun
- A substance, such as a bacterial toxin or an antibody, that causes the destruction of red blood cells by breaking down their membranes.
- Haemolysin in snake venom can cause severe anemia in the victim.
- The lab tested the bacterial culture for the presence of haemolysin to identify the species.
- Certain strains of streptococcus produce a haemolysin that can damage red blood cells.
Synonyms