side population

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "side population" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in scientific contexts, particularly in biology and cancer research, to refer to a subset of cells that exhibit specific characteristics, often in relation to stem cells or tumor cells. Example: "The researchers identified a side population of cells that displayed enhanced tumor-initiating capabilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nevertheless the church declined in membership with the changes in the West Side population.

The New Yorker

Barneys is also very happy with the Upper West Side population its new store will serve, he said.

The New York Times

Side population.

Clinical and Translational Medicine

To investigate whether stem (progenitor) cells are found in human endometrial side population cells.

Fertility and Sterility

To isolate and characterize human leiomyoma stem cells by the side population (SP) method.

Fertility and Sterility

We demonstrated that GLI2 knockdown sensitized gastric cancer cells to 5Fu treatment, decreased ABCG2 expression, and reduced side population.

Journal of Genetics and Genomics

Moreover, ABCG2 is the molecular determinant of the side population that is characteristically enriched in normal and cancer stem cells.

Biochemical Pharmacology

Side population (SP) cells are part of a subpopulation of cells that have stem cell-like characteristics.

Clinical Biochemistry

These side population cells express ABCG2/Bcrp1[57].

Plosone

The side population (SP) and non-side population (NSP) regions were defined on the basis of its fluorescence emission in both blue and red wavelengths.

Plosone

Side Population (SP) cells, a subset of Hoechst-low cells, are enriched with stem cells.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "side population" in scientific writing, clearly define it in the context of your study, as its precise meaning can vary depending on the research area. For example, "We isolated the "side population" based on Hoechst dye exclusion to enrich for stem-like cells."

Common error

Avoid using "side population" as a general term for any cell subpopulation. This term has a specific meaning related to dye exclusion and stem cell properties; using it loosely can lead to confusion. Instead, use more general terms like "cell subset" or "subpopulation of cells" when the specific characteristics of a "side population" are not relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "side population" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in scientific and medical contexts. It specifically refers to a subset of cells with unique characteristics, often related to stem cell properties. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

85%

News & Media

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "side population" is a noun phrase used primarily in scientific contexts to describe cells with specific dye-effluxing properties and stem-cell characteristics. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted within the scientific community. While its use is concentrated in science and medical research, understanding its specific meaning is crucial to avoid misuse. Remember to define "side population" in your writing, and reserve its use for when the specific stem-cell-related properties are relevant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cell subset

Refers to a specific group of cells within a larger population, similar to focusing on a specific segment.

subpopulation of cells

Emphasizes that the group is a part of a larger cellular population.

SP cells

This is an acronym of the word "Side Population", typically for scientific use.

stem cell fraction

Highlights the connection of the cell group to stem cell research, if applicable.

tumor-initiating cell population

If the cell group has tumor-related properties, this phrase highlights the specific role.

drug-effluxing cells

Describes cells characterized by their ability to pump out drugs, a key trait of side populations.

Hoechst-low cells

Refers specifically to cells identified by low staining with Hoechst dye, a common method for identifying side populations.

cancer stem cells

If the cells exhibit stem-cell like qualities in cancer, this phrase is more specific.

stem-like cells

Identifies cells exhibiting stem cell characteristics.

progenitor cells

Highlights the capacity of the cell group to differentiate into specialized cells.

FAQs

How is "side population" typically identified in research?

The "side population" is usually identified using a flow cytometry-based assay involving the Hoechst 33342 dye. Cells that efficiently efflux the dye, due to the presence of certain transporters, exhibit low fluorescence and are categorized as "side population".

What is the significance of identifying a "side population" in cancer research?

In cancer research, the identification of a "side population" is significant because these cells often exhibit stem cell-like properties, including self-renewal and drug resistance. These characteristics contribute to tumor initiation, progression, and relapse after therapy, making them a key target for cancer therapies.

Are "cell subset" and "side population" interchangeable terms?

No, "cell subset" is a more general term that refers to any group of cells within a larger population. "Side population" specifically refers to cells that exhibit the ability to efflux certain dyes, such as Hoechst 33342, and often possess stem cell-like properties.

What are some other markers, besides dye efflux, that are associated with the "side population"?

Besides dye efflux, cells within the "side population" often express high levels of certain ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, such as ABCG2/BCRP1. They may also exhibit stem cell markers like CD133 and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) activity.