Dictionary > De novo

De novo

de novo definition

de novo definition

De Novo Definition

What is de novo? The term is an adverb and an adjective. As an adverb, it is used to denote that something occurs from the start or from the beginning again. As an adjective, it describes something that is not present previously or is just beginning. What does de novo mean in science and medicine?

In biology, for instance, de novo describes some biological process or entity that has begun again. It is a phrase that roughly translates to “new” or “anew”. The same meaning applies to medical and other related fields. Some people italicize the term to indicate that it is a Latin phrase.

De novo Etymology

De novo came from the Latin adverb dē novō, meaning “from the new”. In particular, means “from” whereas novō, “new”.

Synonyms: anew; afresh; again; new.

De novo Examples

Examples of its usage are as follows:

  • De novo synthesis (of a complex molecule): in biochemistry, this is a common phrase. It is used to refer to the formation of any of the various complex biomolecules from simple molecules or precursors via a certain biochemical pathway. This means it has been produced inside the organism anew.
  • De novo peptide sequencing: in bioinformatics, this phrase refers to a form of sequencing.
  • De novo mutation: a phrase in genetics that means a form of a genetic mutation that occurs for the first time in a family member. The mutation (e.g. deletion) could lead to variants inside a germ cell of one of the parents. The variant could also come from a mutated gene inside the fertilized egg. (Ref.1) Mutations like this are important. They increase the variation of the gene pool and the inheritance of new traits leads to greater diversity.

Related terms

See also

References

  1. Definition of de novo mutation – NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. (2020). National Cancer Institute; Cancer.gov. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/genetics-dictionary/def/de-novo-mutation

©BiologyOnline. Content provided and moderated by BiologyOnline Editors.


You will also like...

Thermographic image of face and neck
Regulation of Organic Metabolism, Growth and Energy Balance

The human body is capable of regulating growth and energy balance through various feedback mechanisms. Get to know the e..

DNA carries genes coding for proteins
Genetic Information and Protein Synthesis

Genes are expressed through the process of protein synthesis. This elaborate tutorial provides an in-depth review of the..

DNA molecule
Genetic Control – On and Off Genes

Genes are the blueprint of our bodies, a blueprint that creates a variety of proteins essential to any organism's surviv..

New Zealand Flora & Fauna
Ecology & Biodiversity: New Zealand Flora & Fauna

New Zealand is known for its unique biodiversity, caused by its remarkable geography and geologic history. Breaking away..

Mātauranga Māori and Science Collaboration
Mātauranga Māori and Science

Mātauranga Māori is the living knowledge system of the indigenous people of New Zealand, including the relationships t..

human respiratory system
Respiration

The human respiratory system is an efficient system of inspiring and expiring respiratory gases. This tutorial provides ..

Related Articles...

No related articles found

See all Related Topics