Definition
adjective
(1) Characterized by having one or more genes without allelic counterparts.
(2) Pertaining to a diploid cell with only one copy of a gene instead of the usual two copies.
Supplement
For example, the male is hemizygous for most X chromosome genes.
Word origin: Greek hēmi- half.
Related forms: hemizygosity (noun), hemizygote (noun).
Compare: homozygous, heterozygous
Dictionary > Hemizygous
You will also like...

Homeostatic Mechanisms and Cellular Communication
Homeostasis is the relatively stable conditions of the internal environment that result from compensatory regulatory res..

Chromosome Mutations
Mutations can also influence the phenotype of an organism. This tutorial looks at the effects of chromosomal mutations, ..

Control of Body Movement
Some of the body movements can be controlled at will, others cannot. The body has a motor program, which is the pattern ..

The Human Physiology
Physiology is the study of how living organisms function. Thus, human physiology deals specifically with the physiologic..

Lotic Communities & Animals
A running water environment offers numerous microhabitats for many types of animals. Similar to plants, animals in lotic..

Adaptation Tutorial
Adaptation, in biology and ecology, refers to the process or trait through which organisms or the populations in a habit..