DOMINANT TRAIT Meaning and
Definition
-
A dominant trait refers to a heritable characteristic or attribute that is expressed or visible in an organism when a single copy of its corresponding gene is present. It is a trait that effectively masks or suppresses the expression of the alternate form of the gene, known as the recessive trait, when the two are present together in an individual's genetic makeup. The dominant trait is more visible and has a stronger influence on the organism's phenotype compared to the recessive trait.
Inherited through genes passed down from parents to offspring, dominant traits exert their effects by dictating the production or function of specific proteins or enzymes within the cells of an organism. They can be observed in physical features, physiological functions, or even behavioral tendencies. Examples of dominant traits in humans include dark hair color, dimples, and ability to roll the tongue.
Furthermore, the presence of a dominant trait in an individual does not necessarily imply that the same trait will be passed on to their offspring. Inheritance patterns can vary based on the interaction of multiple genes and the alleles they carry. Dominant traits can be inherited in a simple dominant pattern, where only one parent needs to contribute the dominant gene for it to be expressed, or in more complex patterns such as incomplete dominance or codominance, wherein partial expression or co-expression of both traits occurs.
Etymology of DOMINANT TRAIT
The term "dominant trait" originated from the field of genetics. The word "dominant" comes from the Latin word "dominans", which means ruling or governing. The term was first used in the early 20th century by Gregor Mendel, the father of genetics, to describe a trait that appears in the offspring when it is inherited from just one parent. This trait dominates or masks the presence of a recessive trait, which only appears in the offspring when inherited from both parents. The word "trait" comes from the Old French "trait", meaning a feature or characteristic. So, the term "dominant trait" refers to a hereditary characteristic that is expressed and visible in an individual, even if it is present only in one parent.
