What does the suffix "-phoresis" indicate in a biological context?

The suffix "-phoresis" originates from the Greek word "phoresis," which means to carry or transmit. In a biological context, this term is commonly associated with the process of movement or transmission of particles, molecules, or cells. For example, "electrophoresis" is a technique used in laboratories to separate nucleic acids or proteins based on their size and charge by applying an electric field that causes them to move through a gel or solution.

Understanding this term is essential for various laboratory techniques where the movement of substances is critical, such as in chromatography, diffusion processes, or any method that involves the separation or identification of biological molecules based on their physical properties. The use of "-phoresis" highlights the active role of movement in biological systems, emphasizing processes that require transport across membranes or through different environments.