autologen

Autologen is a term encountered in a limited number of scientific and scholarly contexts. It is generally used to denote materials, cells, or processes that originate from the same individual as the recipient or host. Because autologen is not part of a standardized vocabulary, its precise definition and scope can vary depending on the discipline and author.

Etymology: The word is formed from auto- meaning self and gen- from genesis or origin, with the suffix -en, yielding a sense of “self-originating” or “self-produced.”

Usage and examples: In medical literature, some writers have used autologen to refer to autologous grafts or tissues prepared from a patient’s own body tissue for transplantation or repair. In biology and philosophy, the term may appear to describe self-generated processes or entities, although these uses are relatively uncommon and many authors prefer terms such as autogenic, autopoietic, or autochthonous to convey related ideas.

Distinction and cautions: Autologen is not widely standardized, and its meaning can overlap with or be superseded by more common terms. When encountered, it is advisable to consult the source’s definitions to determine the intended sense.

See also: autologous, autograft, autogenesis, autogenous.