GENE FUSION Meaning and
Definition
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Gene fusion is a molecular event in which two or more separate genes combine to form a single gene. This phenomenon can occur as a result of chromosomal rearrangements, such as translocations or inversions, or through other genetic mechanisms. Gene fusion plays a crucial role in the alteration of gene structure and function, leading to the production of abnormal fusion proteins.
When gene fusion occurs, the two separate genes, each with their own unique coding sequences and regulatory regions, join together to form a hybrid gene. This hybrid gene combines the genetic material of both original genes, resulting in a fusion transcript. This fusion transcript is subsequently translated into a fusion protein, which may possess novel properties, functions, or altered expression patterns compared to the original proteins.
Gene fusions can have important implications in various biological processes, including development, evolution, and disease. In some cases, gene fusions can lead to the creation of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, contributing to the development and progression of cancer. Additionally, gene fusion events have been implicated in genetic disorders, as they can disrupt normal gene function and interfere with normal cellular processes.
The identification and characterization of gene fusions have been facilitated by advances in molecular biology techniques, particularly in next-generation sequencing technologies. Understanding the mechanisms and consequences of gene fusion events is crucial for elucidating the underlying causes of diseases and developing targeted therapies.
Common Misspellings for GENE FUSION
- fene fusion
- vene fusion
- bene fusion
- hene fusion
- yene fusion
- tene fusion
- gwne fusion
- gsne fusion
- gdne fusion
- grne fusion
- g4ne fusion
- g3ne fusion
- gebe fusion
- geme fusion
- geje fusion
- gehe fusion
- genw fusion
- gens fusion
- gend fusion
- genr fusion
Etymology of GENE FUSION
The word "gene fusion" comes from the combination of two components: "gene" and "fusion".
1. Gene: The term "gene" comes from the German word "Gen", which was coined by the Danish botanist Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. Johannsen used the word to describe the fundamental unit of heredity responsible for transmitting traits from parents to offspring. The origin of the German word "Gen" is uncertain, but it is believed to be derived from the Greek word "genos", meaning "race", "birth", or "origin".
2. Fusion: The word "fusion" originated from the Latin word "fusio", which means "a pouring" or "melting". It found its way into English through Old French and has been in use since the late 14th century. "Fusion" refers to the act or process of merging or combining different elements into a single entity.
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