Final answer:
Using the root agglutin/o, the word 'agglutination' describes the biological process where specific antibodies cause pathogens to clump together, forming large aggregates that are more readily filtered by the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
To build a word using agglutin/o that means the process of clumping or gluing, we use the word agglutination. Agglutination is a process where antibodies attach to antigens, causing the formation of masses of linked cells or particles. This process can involve different types of antibodies, such as IgG and IgM. IgG antibodies have two Fab antigen-binding sites and can clump together two separate pathogen cells. With multiple IgG antibodies, large aggregates can form. The pentameric structure of IgM, providing ten Fab binding sites per molecule, makes it very efficient in agglutinating pathogens.
Agglutination makes it easier for the kidneys and spleen to filter these aggregates from the blood and simplifies the process for phagocytes to ingest and destroy them. This biological reaction is used in various medical diagnostics and treatments and can be observed in experiments with antigen-coated latex beads or bacterial species.