Abbreviations in Biology : More Than 400 Commonly Used Biological Abbreviations

Abbreviations in Biology

Abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase, created by using a few letters from the original term, to make communication quicker and simpler.

Example: DNA is the abbreviation of Deoxyribonucleic Acid.

Abbreviations in Biology refer to the shortened form of long biological terms, processes, techniques, or names of molecules, used to make scientific communication easier, quicker, and more standardised. They are widely used in textbooks, research papers, laboratory records, and medical reports to save space and time while maintaining accuracy.

Example: ATP for Adenosine Triphosphate, PCR for Polymerase Chain Reaction, and RNA for Ribonucleic Acid.

Purpose:
1. Simplify complex terminology (e.g., DNA for Deoxyribonucleic Acid).
2. Standardise communication among scientists globally.
3. Reduce repetition in technical writing.
Types:
1. Molecular & Genetic: DNA, RNA, ATP, PCR.
2. Anatomical & Physiological: CNS (Central Nervous System), RBC (Red Blood Cell).
3. Biochemical: NADH, FAD, GTP.
4. Taxonomic: E. coli (Escherichia coli).
Importance:
1. Enhances clarity in scientific discussion.
2. Facilitates quick understanding in multidisciplinary teams.
3. Essential in data presentation, diagrams, and labelling.
Caution:
1. Abbreviations should be defined at first use in any document.
2. Overuse or use of non-standard abbreviations can cause confusion.

Example:

mRNA → Messenger Ribonucleic Acid, carries genetic code from DNA to ribosomes for protein synthesis.

More than 400 commonly used biological abbreviations, with full forms and brief descriptions.
Biological Abbreviations
No.	Abbreviation	Full Form	Brief Description
A
1	ABA	Abscisic Acid	Plant hormone regulating stress responses and seed dormancy.
2	ABC	ATP-Binding Cassette	Family of transport proteins using ATP to move molecules.
3	ABP	Androgen-Binding Protein	Binds and transports androgens in the body.
4	ABR	Auditory Brainstem Response	Test measuring hearing and brainstem function.
5	ACTH	Adrenocorticotropic Hormone	Hormone stimulating cortisol production.
6	ADH	Antidiuretic Hormone	Regulates water balance in kidneys.
7	ADP	Adenosine Diphosphate	Energy-transfer molecule in cells.
8	ATP	Adenosine Triphosphate	Primary energy currency of the cell.
9	AMPK	AMP-Activated Protein Kinase	Enzyme regulating energy balance.
10	ANA	Antinuclear Antibody	Autoantibody targeting cell nuclei.
11	ANP	Atrial Natriuretic Peptide	Hormone reducing blood volume and pressure.
12	ApoE	Apolipoprotein E	Protein in lipid transport and metabolism.
13	APR	Acute Phase Response	Early immune reaction to injury or infection.
14	AQP	Aquaporin	Protein channel for water transport.
15	ARF	ADP-Ribosylation Factor	Protein in vesicle trafficking.
16	ART	Assisted Reproductive Technology	Medical techniques for conception.
17	ASA	Acetylsalicylic Acid	Common anti-inflammatory drug (aspirin).
18	ASO	Antistreptolysin O	Antibody against streptolysin O toxin.
19	AST	Aspartate Aminotransferase	Enzyme in amino acid metabolism.
20	ATF	Activating Transcription Factor	Protein regulating gene expression.
B
21	BACE	Beta-Site APP-Cleaving Enzyme	Enzyme producing amyloid beta.
22	BAL	Bronchoalveolar Lavage	Procedure to collect lung fluid.
23	BALT	Bronchus-Associated Lymphoid Tissue	Immune tissue in the respiratory tract.
24	BAP	Benzylaminopurine	Synthetic plant growth regulator.
25	BAX	Bcl-2-Associated X Protein	Protein promoting apoptosis.
26	BCAA	Branched-Chain Amino Acid	Essential amino acids with branched structure.
27	BCG	Bacillus Calmette–Guérin	Vaccine against tuberculosis.
28	BCL	B-cell Lymphoma	Family of proteins regulating apoptosis.
29	BCR	B-cell Receptor	Surface receptor recognising antigens.
30	BDNF	Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor	Protein supporting neuron survival and growth.
31	BFP	Blue Fluorescent Protein	Fluorescent marker protein.
32	BH4	Tetrahydrobiopterin	Cofactor in neurotransmitter synthesis.
33	BLAST	Basic Local Alignment Search Tool	Bioinformatics tool for sequence comparison.
34	BMP	Bone Morphogenetic Protein	Growth factors in bone development.
35	BNP	B-type Natriuretic Peptide	Hormone regulating blood pressure.
36	BOD	Biochemical Oxygen Demand	Measure of organic matter in water.
37	BP	Base Pair	Unit of DNA length.
38	BPG	2,3-Bisphosphoglycerate	Regulates oxygen release from haemoglobin.
39	BRCA	Breast Cancer Gene	Genes linked to hereditary breast cancer.
40	BSA	Bovine Serum Albumin	Protein used in lab assays.
C
41	CA	Carbonic Anhydrase	Enzyme regulating pH and CO₂ transport.
42	cAMP	Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate	Secondary messenger in signalling.
43	CAP	Catabolite Activator Protein	Transcription factor in bacteria.
44	CAT	Catalase	Enzyme breaking down hydrogen peroxide.
45	CB1	Cannabinoid Receptor 1	Receptor in nervous system.
46	CBC	Complete Blood Count	Blood test measuring cell types.
47	CBF	Core-Binding Factor	Transcription factor complex.
48	CBG	Corticosteroid-Binding Globulin	Protein transporting cortisol.
49	CBP	CREB-Binding Protein	Coactivator in transcription.
50	CC	Cell Cycle	Sequence of cell growth and division.
51	CCK	Cholecystokinin	Hormone stimulating digestion.
52	CCL	Chemokine Ligand	Signalling protein attracting immune cells.
53	CCR	Chemokine Receptor	Protein binding chemokines.
54	CD	Cluster of Differentiation	Cell surface markers in immunology.
55	CDK	Cyclin-Dependent Kinase	Enzyme regulating cell cycle.
56	CDS	Coding Sequence	DNA region coding for protein.
57	CEA	Carcinoembryonic Antigen	Tumour marker protein.
58	CF	Cystic Fibrosis	Genetic disorder affecting lungs and pancreas.
59	CFTR	Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator	Chloride channel protein.
60	CG	Chorionic Gonadotrophin	Hormone in pregnancy.
D
61	DAG	Diacylglycerol	Lipid acting as a secondary messenger.
62	DALY	Disability-Adjusted Life Year	Measure of disease burden.
63	DAMP	Damage-Associated Molecular Pattern	Molecule triggering immune response.
64	DAT	Dopamine Transporter	Protein reuptaking dopamine into neurons.
65	DC	Dendritic Cell	Immune cell presenting antigens.
66	DCM	Dilated Cardiomyopathy	Heart muscle disease causing enlargement.
67	DCP	Decapping Protein	Enzyme removing mRNA caps.
68	DDH	Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip	Abnormal hip joint formation.
69	DDT	Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane	Insecticide, now largely banned.
70	DEET	N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide	Insect repellent compound.
71	DEG	Differentially Expressed Gene	Gene with altered expression between samples.
72	DEL	Deletion Mutation	Loss of DNA segment.
73	DEN	Diethylnitrosamine	Carcinogenic compound.
74	DEX	Dexamethasone	Synthetic glucocorticoid drug.
75	DHAP	Dihydroxyacetone Phosphate	Glycolysis intermediate.
76	DHFR	Dihydrofolate Reductase	Enzyme in folate metabolism.
77	DHT	Dihydrotestosterone	Potent androgen hormone.
78	DNA	Deoxyribonucleic Acid	Genetic material of most organisms.
79	DNase	Deoxyribonuclease	Enzyme that degrades DNA.
80	DNP	2,4-Dinitrophenol	Chemical uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation.
E
81	EAA	Essential Amino Acid	Amino acid required from diet.
82	EAE	Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis	Animal model used to study multiple sclerosis.
83	EBP	Eukaryotic Binding Protein	Protein that binds specific molecules in eukaryotic cells.
84	ECF	Extracellular Fluid	Fluid found outside cells, including plasma and interstitial fluid.
85	ECG	Electrocardiogram	Recording of the heart’s electrical activity.
86	ECL	Enhanced Chemiluminescence	Detection method for proteins in blotting assays.
87	ECM	Extracellular Matrix	Network of proteins and polysaccharides outside cells.
88	ECP	Eosinophil Cationic Protein	Protein from eosinophils involved in immune defence.
89	ECR	Evolutionarily Conserved Region	DNA sequence preserved across species.
90	ECS	Endocannabinoid System	Biological system regulating mood, appetite, and pain.
91	ECT	Electroconvulsive Therapy	Psychiatric treatment using controlled electric currents.
92	ECV	Extracellular Volume	Volume of fluid outside cells.
93	ED	Erectile Dysfunction	Inability to maintain an erection (medical context).
94	EDC	Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical	Compound interfering with hormone systems.
95	EDD	Estimated Due Date	Predicted date of childbirth.
96	EDRF	Endothelium-Derived Relaxing Factor	Molecule (nitric oxide) relaxing blood vessels.
97	EDS	Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome	Connective tissue disorder.
98	EEG	Electroencephalogram	Recording of brain electrical activity.
99	EGF	Epidermal Growth Factor	Protein stimulating cell growth and repair.
100	EGFR	Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor	Cell surface receptor for EGF, important in cancer biology.

No.	Abbreviation	Full Form	Brief Description
F
101	FAD	Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide	Electron carrier in metabolic pathways.
102	FADH₂	Flavin Adenine Dinucleotide (Reduced)	Reduced form used in ATP production.
103	FAS	Fatty Acid Synthase	Enzyme complex synthesising fatty acids.
104	FASL	Fas Ligand	Protein triggering apoptosis via Fas receptor.
105	FBS	Foetal Bovine Serum	Cell culture supplement rich in growth factors.
106	FCS	Foetal Calf Serum	Alternative term for foetal bovine serum.
107	FEV₁	Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second	Lung function measurement.
108	FGF	Fibroblast Growth Factor	Protein family promoting cell growth and healing.
109	FISH	Fluorescence In Situ Hybridisation	Technique to detect DNA/RNA sequences in cells.
110	FKBP	FK506-Binding Protein	Immunophilin involved in protein folding.
111	FLIM	Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy	Imaging technique measuring fluorescence decay.
112	FNR	Ferredoxin–NADP⁺ Reductase	Enzyme in photosynthetic electron transport.
113	FOXO	Forkhead Box O	Transcription factors regulating cell survival.
114	FPKM	Fragments Per Kilobase of transcript per Million mapped reads	RNA-seq expression unit.
115	FRAP	Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching	Technique to study molecular mobility.
116	FRET	Förster Resonance Energy Transfer	Technique to study molecular interactions.
117	FSH	Follicle-Stimulating Hormone	Hormone regulating reproductive processes.
118	FtsZ	Filamenting Temperature-Sensitive Mutant Z	Bacterial protein in cell division.
119	FVC	Forced Vital Capacity	Maximum volume of air exhaled after full inhalation.
120	FXR	Farnesoid X Receptor	Nuclear receptor regulating bile acid metabolism.
G
121	GABA	Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid	Inhibitory neurotransmitter in the nervous system.
122	GAD	Glutamate Decarboxylase	Enzyme producing GABA from glutamate.
123	GAPDH	Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase	Glycolytic enzyme often used as a control in experiments.
124	GATA	GATA-Binding Protein	Transcription factor family.
125	GC	Guanine–Cytosine	DNA base pair.
126	GCN	General Control Nonderepressible	Protein in amino acid biosynthesis regulation.
127	GDP	Guanosine Diphosphate	Nucleotide involved in energy transfer.
128	GEF	Guanine Nucleotide Exchange Factor	Protein activating GTP-binding proteins.
129	GFP	Green Fluorescent Protein	Protein used as a fluorescent marker.
130	GFR	Glomerular Filtration Rate	Measure of kidney function.
131	GGT	Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase	Enzyme in amino acid transport and glutathione metabolism.
132	GH	Growth Hormone	Hormone stimulating growth and metabolism.
133	GHR	Growth Hormone Receptor	Protein binding growth hormone.
134	GIP	Gastric Inhibitory Polypeptide	Hormone regulating insulin secretion.
135	GLUT	Glucose Transporter	Protein facilitating glucose uptake.
136	GM-CSF	Granulocyte–Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor	Cytokine stimulating white blood cell production.
137	GMP	Guanosine Monophosphate	Nucleotide in RNA synthesis.
138	GPCR	G Protein-Coupled Receptor	Large family of cell surface receptors.
139	GPI	Glycosylphosphatidylinositol	Lipid anchor for membrane proteins.
140	GTP	Guanosine Triphosphate	Energy source in protein synthesis and signalling.
H
141	H₂O	Water	Essential molecule for life processes.
142	H₂O₂	Hydrogen Peroxide	Reactive oxygen species and signalling molecule.
143	HAT	Histone Acetyltransferase	Enzyme modifying histones to regulate gene expression.
144	Hb	Haemoglobin	Oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
145	HBA	Haemoglobin Alpha	Alpha subunit of haemoglobin.
146	HBB	Haemoglobin Beta	Beta subunit of haemoglobin.
147	HBP	Hexose-Bisphosphate	Sugar intermediate in glycolysis.
148	HCV	Hepatitis C Virus	Virus causing liver infection.
149	HDAC	Histone Deacetylase	Enzyme removing acetyl groups from histones.
150	HDL	High-Density Lipoprotein	“Good” cholesterol transporter.
151	HIF	Hypoxia-Inducible Factor	Transcription factor activated in low oxygen.
152	HIV	Human Immunodeficiency Virus	Virus causing AIDS.
153	HLA	Human Leukocyte Antigen	Proteins presenting antigens to immune cells.
154	HMG	High Mobility Group	DNA-binding proteins influencing chromatin structure.
155	HPLC	High-Performance Liquid Chromatography	Technique for separating and analysing compounds.
156	HR	Homologous Recombination	DNA repair mechanism.
157	HRP	Horseradish Peroxidase	Enzyme used in biochemical assays.
158	HRT	Hormone Replacement Therapy	Treatment for hormone deficiency.
159	HSV	Herpes Simplex Virus	Virus causing cold sores and genital herpes.
160	HSP	Heat Shock Protein	Protein helping other proteins fold under stress.
I
161	IAA	Indole-3-Acetic Acid	Common plant auxin hormone.
162	IBD	Inflammatory Bowel Disease	Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
163	IBS	Irritable Bowel Syndrome	Functional gastrointestinal disorder.
164	ICAM	Intercellular Adhesion Molecule	Protein aiding cell–cell adhesion.
165	ICD	International Classification of Diseases	Global health diagnostic standard.
166	ICF	Intracellular Fluid	Fluid inside cells.
167	IDH	Isocitrate Dehydrogenase	Enzyme in the TCA cycle.
168	IgA	Immunoglobulin A	Antibody found in mucosal areas.
169	IgE	Immunoglobulin E	Antibody involved in allergic reactions.
170	IgG	Immunoglobulin G	Most abundant antibody in blood.
171	IgM	Immunoglobulin M	First antibody produced in immune response.
172	IL	Interleukin	Cytokine regulating immune responses.
173	IM	Intramuscular	Route of drug administration into muscle.
174	INH	Isoniazid	Antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis.
175	IP₃	Inositol Triphosphate	Secondary messenger in signalling.
176	IR	Insulin Receptor	Protein binding insulin.
177	IRF	Interferon Regulatory Factor	Transcription factor in immune response.
178	IRS	Insulin Receptor Substrate	Protein in insulin signalling.
179	ISH	In Situ Hybridisation	Technique to detect nucleic acids in tissue.
180	ITAM	Immunoreceptor Tyrosine-based Activation Motif	Signalling motif in immune receptors.
J
181	JAK	Janus Kinase	Enzyme in cytokine signalling pathways.
182	JCV	JC Virus	Human polyomavirus.
183	JH	Juvenile Hormone	Insect hormone regulating development.
184	JNK	c-Jun N-terminal Kinase	Enzyme in stress signalling pathways.
185	JSRV	Jaagsiekte Sheep Retrovirus	Virus causing lung cancer in sheep.
186	JSR	Junctional Sarcoplasmic Reticulum	Specialised ER in muscle cells.
187	JTT	Japanese Traditional Therapy	Herbal treatment studied in biology contexts.
188	JUP	Junction Plakoglobin	Protein in cell junctions.
189	JVG	Junonia Villardii Gene	Butterfly gene studied
K
190	Kb	Kilobase	Unit of DNA length equal to 1,000 base pairs.
191	KCl	Potassium Chloride	Salt important in cell osmotic balance.
192	KD	Knockdown	Reduction of gene expression, often via RNA interference.
193	Kd	Dissociation Constant	Measure of binding affinity between molecules.
194	KEGG	Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes	Database for biological pathways.
195	KIR	Killer-cell Immunoglobulin-like Receptor	Immune receptor on NK cells.
196	KIT	Stem Cell Factor Receptor	Protein important in cell growth and survival.
197	KLH	Keyhole Limpet Haemocyanin	Large protein used as an immune stimulant in research.
198	KLF	Kruppel-like Factor	Family of transcription factors.
199	KO	Knockout	Organism with a specific gene inactivated.
200	KRAS	Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homologue	Gene encoding a signalling protein often mutated in cancer.

No.	Abbreviation	Full Form	Brief Description
L
201	LA	Linoleic Acid	Essential omega-6 fatty acid.
202	LAB	Lactic Acid Bacteria	Microbes producing lactic acid during fermentation.
203	LacZ	Beta-Galactosidase Gene	Enzyme used as a reporter in molecular biology.
204	LDL	Low-Density Lipoprotein	Transports cholesterol in blood (“bad” cholesterol).
205	LDH	Lactate Dehydrogenase	Enzyme converting lactate to pyruvate.
206	LEF	Lymphoid Enhancer-Binding Factor	Transcription factor in Wnt signalling.
207	LH	Luteinising Hormone	Hormone triggering ovulation and testosterone production.
208	LIF	Leukaemia Inhibitory Factor	Cytokine affecting cell differentiation.
209	LKB1	Liver Kinase B1	Tumour suppressor kinase.
210	LPS	Lipopolysaccharide	Component of Gram-negative bacterial outer membrane.
211	LRR	Leucine-Rich Repeat	Protein structural motif in receptors.
212	LRP	LDL Receptor-Related Protein	Receptor in lipid metabolism and signalling.
213	LRRK2	Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2	Protein linked to Parkinson’s disease.
214	LSM	Like-Sm Protein	RNA-binding protein family.
215	LTP	Long-Term Potentiation	Strengthening of synapses in learning and memory.
216	LTR	Long Terminal Repeat	Repetitive DNA sequence in retroviruses.
217	LUCA	Last Universal Common Ancestor	Hypothetical common ancestor of all life.
218	LV	Left Ventricle	Main pumping chamber of the heart.
219	LXR	Liver X Receptor	Nuclear receptor regulating cholesterol metabolism.
220	Lys	Lysine	Essential amino acid in proteins.
M
221	MAPK	Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase	Enzyme in cell signalling pathways.
222	MAb	Monoclonal Antibody	Laboratory-produced antibody targeting a specific antigen.
223	MALT	Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue	Immune tissue in mucosal surfaces.
224	MBP	Myelin Basic Protein	Protein in the myelin sheath of nerves.
225	MCF	Mammary Carcinoma Cell Line	Cell line used in cancer research.
226	MCH	Mean Corpuscular Haemoglobin	Average haemoglobin per red blood cell.
227	MCL	Myeloid Cell Leukaemia	Type of cancer affecting white blood cells.
228	MCM	Minichromosome Maintenance	Proteins essential for DNA replication.
229	MCP	Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein	Cytokine attracting monocytes.
230	M-CSF	Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor	Cytokine promoting macrophage production.
231	MCV	Mean Corpuscular Volume	Average size of red blood cells.
232	MDH	Malate Dehydrogenase	Enzyme in the TCA cycle.
233	MDR	Multidrug Resistance	Resistance of cells or microbes to multiple drugs.
234	MEK	MAPK/ERK Kinase	Enzyme in MAPK signalling cascade.
235	MET	Mesenchymal–Epithelial Transition	Biological process in development and cancer.
236	MHC	Major Histocompatibility Complex	Proteins presenting antigens to immune cells.
237	miRNA	MicroRNA	Small RNA regulating gene expression.
238	MMP	Matrix Metalloproteinase	Enzyme degrading extracellular matrix.
239	mRNA	Messenger RNA	Carries genetic code from DNA to ribosomes.
240	MTOR	Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin	Kinase regulating cell growth and metabolism.
N
241	NAD⁺	Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide	Electron carrier in metabolism.
242	NADH	Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (Reduced)	Reduced form used in ATP production.
243	NADP⁺	Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate	Electron carrier in biosynthesis.
244	NADPH	Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (Reduced)	Electron donor in anabolic reactions.
245	Na⁺	Sodium Ion	Essential ion in nerve signalling and fluid balance.
246	NaCl	Sodium Chloride	Common salt, important in osmotic balance.
247	NCBI	National Center for Biotechnology Information	US bioinformatics resource.
248	NCOR	Nuclear Receptor Corepressor	Protein regulating transcription.
249	NER	Nucleotide Excision Repair	DNA repair pathway for bulky lesions.
250	NF-κB	Nuclear Factor Kappa-Light-Chain-Enhancer of Activated B Cells	Transcription factor in immune responses.
251	NGF	Nerve Growth Factor	Protein promoting neuron survival.
252	NK cell	Natural Killer Cell	Immune cell targeting infected or cancerous cells.
253	NLS	Nuclear Localisation Signal	Protein sequence directing nuclear import.
254	NMR	Nuclear Magnetic Resonance	Technique for molecular structure analysis.
255	NO	Nitric Oxide	Signalling molecule in many biological processes.
256	NOS	Nitric Oxide Synthase	Enzyme producing nitric oxide.
257	NPT	Nucleoside Phosphate Transporter	Protein transporting nucleotides.
258	NR	Nuclear Receptor	Protein regulating gene expression in response to hormones.
259	NRTI	Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitor	Antiviral drug class for HIV.
260	NTP	Nucleoside Triphosphate	Building block for nucleic acids.
O
261	O₂	Oxygen	Gas essential for aerobic respiration.
262	OA	Osteoarthritis	Degenerative joint disease.
263	OAS	2′-5′-Oligoadenylate Synthetase	Enzyme in antiviral defence.
264	OBP	Odorant-Binding Protein	Protein transporting smell molecules to receptors.
265	OCT	Organic Cation Transporter	Protein moving positively charged molecules.
266	OMM	Outer Mitochondrial Membrane	Outer layer of mitochondria.
267	OPA1	Optic Atrophy 1	Protein in mitochondrial fusion.
268	OPV	Oral Polio Vaccine	Vaccine against poliomyelitis.
269	ORF	Open Reading Frame	DNA sequence potentially coding for a protein.
270	ORS	Oral Rehydration Solution	Fluid replacement for dehydration.
271	OVA	Ovalbumin	Protein in egg white used in research.
272	OXPHOS	Oxidative Phosphorylation	Process of ATP production in mitochondria.
273	OXT	Oxytocin	Hormone involved in childbirth and bonding.
274	OYE	Old Yellow Enzyme	Flavoprotein involved in oxidation–reduction reactions.
275	OMP	Outer Membrane Protein	Protein in bacterial outer membranes.
276	OHC	Outer Hair Cell	Sensory cell in the cochlea that amplifies sound vibrations.
277	OMM	Outer Mitochondrial Membrane	Outer boundary of the mitochondrion.
278	OMP	Outer Membrane Protein	Protein embedded in the outer membrane of bacteria or organelles.
279	OPN	Osteopontin	Glycoprotein involved in bone remodelling and immune responses.
280	OR	Odds Ratio	Statistical measure often used in epidemiology.
281	ORC	Origin Recognition Complex	Protein complex that initiates DNA replication.
282	ORF	Open Reading Frame	DNA sequence that can be translated into protein.
283	ORM	Orosomucoid	Acute-phase plasma protein.
284	OVA	Ovalbumin	Major protein in egg white, used in immunology studies.
285	OXPHOS	Oxidative Phosphorylation	ATP production process in mitochondria.
P
286	PAH	Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon	Organic pollutant with biological effects.
287	PAMP	Pathogen-Associated Molecular Pattern	Molecule recognised by the innate immune system.
288	PARP	Poly(ADP-Ribose) Polymerase	Enzyme involved in DNA repair.
289	PAS	Periodic Acid–Schiff	Staining method for carbohydrates in tissues.
290	PBMC	Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell	Blood immune cells with a single round nucleus.
291	PCR	Polymerase Chain Reaction	Technique to amplify DNA.
292	PDGF	Platelet-Derived Growth Factor	Protein promoting cell growth and healing.
293	PDH	Pyruvate Dehydrogenase	Enzyme linking glycolysis to the TCA cycle.
294	PEP	Phosphoenolpyruvate	Glycolysis intermediate.
295	PFK	Phosphofructokinase	Key regulatory enzyme in glycolysis.
296	PG	Prostaglandin	Lipid compound with hormone-like effects.
297	PGC-1α	PPAR Gamma Coactivator 1-alpha	Regulator of mitochondrial biogenesis.
298	PGR	Progesterone Receptor	Protein binding the hormone progesterone.
299	PKA	Protein Kinase A	Enzyme regulated by cAMP.
300	PKC	Protein Kinase C	Enzyme involved in signal transduction.

No.	Abbreviation	Full Form	Brief Description
301	PLP	Pyridoxal Phosphate	Active form of vitamin B6, enzyme cofactor.
302	PMF	Proton Motive Force	Electrochemical gradient driving ATP synthesis.
303	PMN	Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte	White blood cell with a multi-lobed nucleus.
304	PNS	Peripheral Nervous System	Nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
305	PPAR	Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor	Nuclear receptor regulating metabolism.
306	PSI	Photosystem I	Protein complex in photosynthesis.
307	PSII	Photosystem II	Protein complex that splits water in photosynthesis.
308	PTEN	Phosphatase and Tensin Homologue	Tumour suppressor gene.
309	PTH	Parathyroid Hormone	Hormone regulating calcium levels.
310	PTM	Post-Translational Modification	Chemical modification of proteins after synthesis.
Q
311	QALY	Quality-Adjusted Life Year	Measure of disease burden combining quality and quantity of life.
312	QPCR	Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction	Technique to measure DNA amplification in real time.
313	QRS	QRS Complex	ECG waveform representing ventricular depolarisation.
314	QTL	Quantitative Trait Locus	DNA region linked to a quantitative trait.
315	QUAD	Quadruplex DNA	Four-stranded DNA structure.
R
316	RA	Retinoic Acid	Vitamin A derivative regulating gene expression.
317	RACE	Rapid Amplification of cDNA Ends	Technique to obtain full-length RNA sequences.
318	RANK	Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor κB	Protein in bone metabolism.
319	RANKL	RANK Ligand	Protein stimulating bone resorption.
320	Rb	Retinoblastoma Protein	Tumour suppressor regulating the cell cycle.
321	RBC	Red Blood Cell	Blood cell carrying oxygen.
322	RBP	RNA-Binding Protein	Protein that binds RNA molecules.
323	RFLP	Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism	DNA variation detected by restriction enzymes.
324	Rho	Ras Homologue	Small GTP-binding protein.
325	RISC	RNA-Induced Silencing Complex	Protein complex mediating RNA interference.
326	RNA	Ribonucleic Acid	Molecule involved in protein synthesis and gene regulation.
327	RNAP	RNA Polymerase	Enzyme synthesising RNA from DNA.
328	ROS	Reactive Oxygen Species	Chemically reactive oxygen molecules.
329	RPA	Replication Protein A	Protein binding single-stranded DNA during replication.
330	RPKM	Reads Per Kilobase of transcript per Million mapped reads	RNA-seq expression unit.
S
331	SA	Salicylic Acid	Plant hormone in defence responses.
332	SAM	S-Adenosylmethionine	Methyl group donor in metabolism.
333	SAP	Serum Amyloid P	Plasma protein in immune regulation.
334	SCF	Stem Cell Factor	Cytokine promoting stem cell growth.
335	SCID	Severe Combined Immunodeficiency	Genetic disorder causing immune deficiency.
336	SDS	Sodium Dodecyl Sulphate	Detergent used in protein electrophoresis.
337	SDS-PAGE	SDS Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis	Protein separation method.
338	SERM	Selective Oestrogen Receptor Modulator	Drug affecting oestrogen receptors.
339	SH2	Src Homology 2 Domain	Protein domain binding phosphorylated tyrosines.
340	siRNA	Small Interfering RNA	RNA molecule silencing gene expression.
341	SIRT	Sirtuin	Protein family involved in ageing and metabolism.
342	SIV	Simian Immunodeficiency Virus	Primate virus related to HIV.
343	SMAD	Mothers Against Decapentaplegic Homologue	Signal transduction proteins in TGF-β pathway.
344	SMC	Structural Maintenance of Chromosomes	Protein complex in chromosome organisation.
345	SNP	Single Nucleotide Polymorphism	Single base variation in DNA.
346	SNARE	Soluble NSF Attachment Protein Receptor	Protein mediating vesicle fusion.
347	snRNA	Small Nuclear RNA	RNA involved in splicing.
348	SOD	Superoxide Dismutase	Antioxidant enzyme.
349	SOS	Son of Sevenless	Guanine nucleotide exchange factor in signalling.
350	SRP	Signal Recognition Particle	Protein–RNA complex targeting proteins to membranes.
T
351	T3	Triiodothyronine	Thyroid hormone regulating metabolism.
352	T4	Thyroxine	Thyroid hormone regulating metabolism.
353	TAD	Transcriptional Activation Domain	Protein region activating transcription.
354	TAP	Transporter Associated with Antigen Processing	Protein moving peptides into the ER.
355	TATA	TATA Box	DNA sequence in promoters.
356	TCA	Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle	Central metabolic pathway for energy production.
357	TCR	T Cell Receptor	Immune receptor on T lymphocytes.
358	TGF-β	Transforming Growth Factor Beta	Cytokine regulating cell growth and differentiation.
359	TGN	Trans-Golgi Network	Golgi apparatus region sorting proteins.
360	TLR	Toll-Like Receptor	Immune receptor recognising pathogens.
361	TM	Transmembrane	Protein region spanning the membrane.
362	TNF	Tumour Necrosis Factor	Cytokine involved in inflammation.
363	TNFR	Tumour Necrosis Factor Receptor	Protein binding TNF.
364	TP53	Tumour Protein p53	Tumour suppressor regulating the cell cycle and apoptosis.
365	TRH	Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone	Hypothalamic hormone stimulating TSH release.
366	tRNA	Transfer RNA	Brings amino acids to ribosomes during protein synthesis.
367	TRP	Tryptophan	Essential amino acid and serotonin precursor.
368	TRPV1	Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1	Ion channel involved in pain and heat sensation.
369	TSH	Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone	Pituitary hormone regulating thyroid gland.
370	TSS	Transcription Start Site	Location where transcription begins on DNA.
371	TSS (alt)	Total Suspended Solids	Measure of particulate matter in water.
372	TTD	Trichothiodystrophy	Genetic disorder affecting hair, skin, and development.
373	TTP	Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura	Blood disorder with clotting in small vessels.
374	TUBB	Tubulin Beta	Protein forming microtubules.
375	TUNEL	Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP Nick End Labelling	Technique detecting DNA fragmentation in apoptosis.
376	TWEAK	TNF-like Weak Inducer of Apoptosis	Cytokine in cell death and inflammation.
U
377	UAA	Uracil–Adenine–Adenine	One of the three stop codons in mRNA.
378	UBC	Ubiquitin C	Gene encoding ubiquitin protein.
379	UCP	Uncoupling Protein	Mitochondrial protein dissipating proton gradient.
380	UDP	Uridine Diphosphate	Nucleotide sugar donor in metabolism.
381	UGT	UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase	Enzyme in detoxification.
382	UMP	Uridine Monophosphate	RNA nucleotide.
383	UPR	Unfolded Protein Response	Cellular stress response to misfolded proteins.
384	URTI	Upper Respiratory Tract Infection	Infection of nose, throat, or airways.
385	UTR	Untranslated Region	Non-coding section of mRNA regulating translation.
386	UV	Ultraviolet	Electromagnetic radiation affecting DNA.
V
387	VAMP	Vesicle-Associated Membrane Protein	Protein in vesicle fusion.
388	VCAM	Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule	Protein aiding white blood cell adhesion.
389	VDAC	Voltage-Dependent Anion Channel	Mitochondrial membrane channel.
390	VEGF	Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor	Protein promoting blood vessel growth.
391	VHL	Von Hippel–Lindau	Tumour suppressor gene.
392	VLDL	Very Low-Density Lipoprotein	Transports triglycerides in blood.
393	VNTR	Variable Number Tandem Repeat	Repeated DNA sequence used in profiling.
394	VLP	Virus-Like Particle	Non-infectious viral structure used in vaccines.
395	Vmax	Maximum Velocity	Enzyme’s maximum reaction rate.
396	VP1	Viral Protein 1	Structural protein in many viruses.
W
397	WBC	White Blood Cell	Immune system cell.
398	WEE1	WEE1 G2 Checkpoint Kinase	Enzyme regulating cell cycle progression.
399	WGS	Whole Genome Sequencing	Determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism.
400	WNT	Wingless/Integrated	Signalling pathway in development.

No.	Abbreviation	Full Form	Brief Description
401	WRKY	WRKY Transcription Factor	Plant transcription factor family.
402	WT	Wild Type	Natural, non-mutated form of a gene or organism.
X
403	XBP1	X-Box Binding Protein 1	Transcription factor in the unfolded protein response.
404	XCI	X-Chromosome Inactivation	Process silencing one X chromosome in females.
405	XIST	X-Inactive Specific Transcript	RNA involved in X-chromosome inactivation.
406	X-gal	5-Bromo-4-Chloro-3-Indolyl-β-D-Galactopyranoside	Substrate for β-galactosidase producing blue colour.
407	XMP	Xanthosine Monophosphate	Nucleotide in purine metabolism.
Y
408	YAC	Yeast Artificial Chromosome	Vector for cloning large DNA fragments.
409	YAP	Yes-Associated Protein	Transcription coactivator in growth control.
410	YFP	Yellow Fluorescent Protein	GFP variant emitting yellow light.
411	YLD	Years Lived with Disability	Measure of disease burden.
412	YTHDF	YTH N6-Methyladenosine RNA Binding Protein	Protein recognising m6A RNA modifications.
Z
413	ZAP70	Zeta-Chain-Associated Protein Kinase 70	Enzyme in T-cell receptor signalling.
414	ZEB1	Zinc Finger E-Box Binding Homeobox 1	Transcription factor in EMT.
415	ZFN	Zinc Finger Nuclease	Engineered DNA-cutting enzyme.
416	ZFP	Zinc Finger Protein	Protein with zinc finger DNA-binding motifs.
417	ZIKV	Zika Virus	Flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes.
418	ZIP	Zrt/Irt-like Protein	Metal ion transporter.
419	ZMPSTE24	Zinc Metalloproteinase STE24	Enzyme processing prelamin A.
420	ZO-1	Zonula Occludens-1	Tight junction protein in epithelial cells.
421	ZRS	Zone of Polarising Activity Regulatory Sequence	Limb development enhancer element.
422	ZSCAN	Zinc Finger and SCAN Domain Containing Protein	Transcription factor family.
423	ZP1	Zona Pellucida Glycoprotein 1	Structural protein in the egg’s outer layer.
424	ZP2	Zona Pellucida Glycoprotein 2	Protein involved in sperm binding to the egg.
425	ZP3	Zona Pellucida Glycoprotein 3	Key sperm receptor in fertilisation.
426	ZRSR2	Zinc Finger CCCH-Type, RNA Binding Motif and Serine/Arginine Rich 2	Splicing factor gene.
427	ZYG	Zygote	Single cell formed by fertilisation.

Abbreviations are an inseparable part of biology. They streamline communication, facilitate global collaboration, and help learners manage the vast vocabulary of life sciences. From DNA and ATP to PCR and CRISPR, these shorthand terms carry the weight of fundamental biological principles, medical breakthroughs, and cutting-edge technologies.

Yet, abbreviations are not without challenges. Ambiguity, overuse, and the potential to create barriers for new learners must be addressed through careful use and effective teaching. When applied thoughtfully, abbreviations not only aid scientists in precise communication but also allow the public to engage more directly with biological ideas.

In the modern era, where biology intersects with technology, medicine, and everyday life, abbreviations serve as more than linguistic shortcuts. They are essential tools in shaping scientific thought, education, and public understanding. Their role will only grow as biology continues to expand into new territories, making them an enduring cornerstone of scientific language.

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Abbreviations in Biology : More Than 400 Commonly Used Biological Abbreviations

Abbreviations in Biology

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More than 400 commonly used biological abbreviations, with full forms and brief descriptions.

Biological Abbreviations

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