Kétszálú

Kétszálú is a Hungarian adjective meaning two-stranded or having two parallel strands. It is used to describe objects or structures composed of two filaments, threads, or chains. The term is versatile and appears in multiple disciplines, including biology, textiles, and materials science, where it helps distinguish two-filament forms from single-stranded variants.

In biology, kétszálú commonly refers to double-stranded molecules. The most familiar example is kétszálú DNS (double-stranded DNA), whose two polynucleotide chains run antiparallel and form the characteristic double helix. The strands are complementary, enabling base pairing between adenine and thymine, and cytosine and guanine. Double-stranded configurations provide stability and are essential for replication and genetic transmission. A related concept is kétszálú RNS (double-stranded RNA), which occurs in certain viruses and cellular processes and can influence gene regulation and defense mechanisms.

In textiles and materials science, kétszálú can describe yarns or fibers that consist of two strands twisted together (often referred to as two-ply). Such constructions can alter strength, texture, and feel, depending on the materials and twist level.

Etymology: the word is formed from két (two) and szálú (strand, filament), with the suffix -ú creating an adjective meaning “having or composed of.”