ALLELES Meaning and
Definition
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Alleles are the different forms or variations of a gene that exist at a specific locus or position on a chromosome. They are defined by specific DNA sequences and determine the different traits or characteristics that an organism inherits. Alleles can be thought of as alternative versions of a gene that result in distinct phenotypic expressions.
Each individual possesses two alleles for every gene, one inherited from each parent. The combination of these alleles determines the genetic makeup and contributes to the observed traits or features of an organism. Alleles can be either dominant, recessive, or co-dominant, with dominant alleles exerting their effects over recessive ones in heterozygous individuals. Co-dominant alleles, on the other hand, contribute equally to the phenotype when present together.
Alleles can undergo changes or mutations, leading to new variants within a population. These mutations can arise through various mechanisms, including random errors during DNA replication or exposure to environmental factors. The existence of multiple alleles for a gene accounts for genetic diversity within a population.
The study of alleles and their interactions is crucial in understanding inheritance patterns, genetic disorders, and evolutionary processes. Scientists use various molecular techniques, including DNA sequencing and genotyping, to identify and characterize different alleles within a population. This knowledge aids in predicting and understanding the inheritance patterns of traits, determining genetic predispositions to diseases, and developing treatments or interventions.
Top Common Misspellings for ALLELES *
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Other Common Misspellings for ALLELES
Etymology of ALLELES
The word "alleles" has its origin in the field of genetics. The term was first coined by Danish botanist and geneticist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. Johannsen derived the word from the Greek term "allelon", which means "of each other" or "one another" and represents the idea of being mutually related. Johannsen used the term to describe different forms or variations of a gene that can exist at a particular location on a chromosome. As such, alleles are the alternative versions of a gene that can contribute to the various traits or characteristics of an organism.
Similar spelling words for ALLELES
- allyls,
- illwills,
- aisleless,
- alalias,
- oilholes,
- ilalis',
- allels,
- alleluias,
- oleales,
- allulose,
- Oleoles,
- ilalis,
- ALALAS,
- ilalis's,
- Oleols,
- allhallows,
- Eleoles,
- isleless,
- ILYLAS,
- Oleules,
- oleoyls,
- allheals,
- wellholes,
- ILALS,
- alleluiahs,
- willless,
- wallless.
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