Dictionary > Hemizygous gene

Hemizygous gene

Definition
noun
A gene in which it has no allelic counterpart or is present as only a single copy instead of the usual two copies in a diploid cell or organism.
Supplement
For example, a gene wherein one of its pair is deleted is a hemizygous gene. In another example, most of the genes of the X chromosome and Y chromosome in human males are hemizygous since males have only one X chromosome (and one Y chromosome) (unlike females that has two X chromosomes).
Word origin: Greek hēmi- half + zygous > zygote.


You will also like...

Consciousness and behavior
Consciousness and Behavior

Human consciousness and behavior are an interesting topic since they are determined and controlled by the brain. Conscio..

Community Patterns

Learn about community patterns and the ecological factors influencing these patterns. Revisit some of the ecosystems you..

bryophyte - sporophyte and gametophyte
Meiosis and Alternation of Generations

Plants are characterized by having alternation of generations in their life cycles. This tutorial is a review of plant m..

"Opabinia regalis"
The Evolutionary Development of Multicellular Organisms

Multicellular organisms evolved. The first ones were likely in the form of sponges. Multicellularity led to the evolutio..

Stem
Stems

Stems primarily provide plants structural support. This tutorial includes lectures on the external form of a woody twig ..

An artist's depiction of the origin of amphibians
Amphibians & Early Reptiles

Obtaining air outside an aquatic environment required species to acquire suitable adaptations, and this was the case of ..

Related Articles...

No related articles found

See all Related Topics