HOMEOTIC GENE Meaning and
Definition
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A homeotic gene refers to a type of gene that controls the development and positioning of body parts during embryonic development. These genes play a crucial role in determining the overall body plan and are responsible for the specific arrangement and identity of body segments in different organisms. Homeotic genes are particularly important in the field of developmental biology and genetics.
Homeotic genes generally exist in clusters, known as gene complexes, and are typically organized in a linear sequence on chromosomes. These genes encode transcription factors, which are proteins that regulate the expression of other genes and control the developmental fate of a particular cell or tissue. The expression of homeotic genes is tightly regulated and occurs at specific times and regions of the developing embryo.
Mutations or alterations in homeotic genes can result in significant changes in organismal development and can lead to various abnormalities or malformations. For instance, a mutation in a homeotic gene may cause one body part to develop in the place of another, resulting in a structural defect or abnormality. These mutant homeotic genes are known as homeotic mutants and have been extensively studied to better understand the mechanisms underlying embryonic development and pattern formation.
In summary, homeotic genes are genes that control the development and positioning of body parts during embryonic development. They play a pivotal role in establishing the body plan and determining the identity and arrangement of body segments. Mutations in these genes can lead to abnormalities and provide valuable insights into the complex processes of development.
Common Misspellings for HOMEOTIC GENE
- gomeotic gene
- bomeotic gene
- nomeotic gene
- jomeotic gene
- uomeotic gene
- yomeotic gene
- himeotic gene
- hkmeotic gene
- hlmeotic gene
- hpmeotic gene
- h0meotic gene
- h9meotic gene
- honeotic gene
- hokeotic gene
- hojeotic gene
- homwotic gene
- homsotic gene
- homdotic gene
- homrotic gene
- hom4otic gene
Etymology of HOMEOTIC GENE
The word "homeotic gene" is derived from the combination of two terms: "homeo-" and "gene".
1. "Homeo-" comes from the Greek word "hómoios", meaning "similar" or "alike". In biology, the prefix "homeo-" indicates something that is similar or alike in nature.
2. "Gene" refers to a functional unit of heredity that carries and transmits information from one generation to another.
Therefore, the term "homeotic gene" refers to a type of gene that controls the development and identity of body parts or segments in organisms, making them similar or alike to one another. These genes play a significant role in specifying the structures and functions of body parts during the development of an organism.
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