Dictionary > Hypomorphic mutation

Hypomorphic mutation

Definition
noun
(genetics) A type of mutation wherein the change in gene leads to the partial loss of the normal (wild-type) gene function, such as by reduced expression (of protein or RNA)
Supplement
Mutations involving recessive genes often results in the reduction or elimination of the gene function. When the function of the gene is completely eliminated the mutation is referred to as amorphic. But when the mutation leads to only a reduction in the gene function it is called hypomorphic. Thus, in the latter type of mutation, the function of the gene is not eliminated but reduced. Other types of mutations based on the effects on the phenotypes are antimorphic mutation, hypermorphic mutation, and neomorphic mutation. Both amorphic and hypomorphic mutations are associated with the loss of function due to a gene mutation. The other three, in contrast, are related to the “gain of function” of the gene. The terms were coined by the American geneticist, Hermann J. Muller.1
Synonym(s):

  • partial loss-of-function mutation
  • weak mutation
  • hypomorph

Compare:

See also:

Reference(s):

1Muller, H. J. 1932. Further studies on the nature and causes of gene mutations. Proceedings of the 6th International Congress of Genetics, pp. 213–255.


You will also like...

squirrel
Animal Water Regulation

Animals adapt to their environment in aspects of anatomy, physiology, and behavior. This tutorial will help you understa..

Plant Water Regulation
Plant Water Regulation

Plants need to regulate water in order to stay upright and structurally stable. Find out the different evolutionary adap..

Water Cycle
The Water Cycle

The water cycle (also referred to as the hydrological cycle) is a system of continuous transfer of water from the air, s..

Adaptation Tutorial
Adaptation Tutorial

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

Plant biology
Plant Biology

Plantlife can be studied at a variety of levels, from the molecular, genetic and biochemical level through organelles, c..

Early Earth
The Origins of Life

This tutorial digs into the past to investigate the origins of life. The section is split into geological periods in the..

Related Articles...

No related articles found

See all Related Topics