HOMEOTIC MUTANT Meaning and
Definition
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Homeotic mutant refers to a genetic mutation that leads to the alteration of the normal developmental pattern of an organism, resulting in the transformation or complete loss of certain body parts or organs. Specifically, these mutations affect the genes responsible for regulating the process of body segmentation and pattern formation during embryonic development.
Homeotic mutants have been extensively studied in organisms such as fruit flies and mice, where they have provided crucial insights into the understanding of embryonic development and the genetic basis of anatomical structures. These mutations are characterized by the abnormal placement or transformation of one body part into another, often resulting in severe abnormalities or functional defects.
The term "homeotic" derives from the Greek word "homeo" meaning similar or alike, reflecting the concept that these mutations transform one body segment into another that is normally similar in appearance or function. For instance, a homeotic mutant may exhibit legs developing in place of antennae, wings instead of legs, or even complete loss of specific body parts.
The study of homeotic mutants has played a significant role in the field of evolutionary and developmental biology by elucidating the role of specific genes in body development and providing evidence for the evolutionary conservation of these genes across different species. By deciphering the molecular mechanisms underlying homeotic mutations, scientists can gain a deeper understanding of the complex processes that shape the diverse body plans observed in the animal kingdom.
Common Misspellings for HOMEOTIC MUTANT
- gomeotic mutant
- bomeotic mutant
- nomeotic mutant
- jomeotic mutant
- uomeotic mutant
- yomeotic mutant
- himeotic mutant
- hkmeotic mutant
- hlmeotic mutant
- hpmeotic mutant
- h0meotic mutant
- h9meotic mutant
- honeotic mutant
- hokeotic mutant
- hojeotic mutant
- homwotic mutant
- homsotic mutant
- homdotic mutant
- homrotic mutant
- hom4otic mutant
Etymology of HOMEOTIC MUTANT
The word "homeotic mutant" is derived from two main components: "homeotic" and "mutant".
1. Homeotic: The term "homeotic" comes from the combination of two Greek words - "homoios" meaning "similar" or "same", and "osis" meaning "state" or "condition". This term was originally used in embryology and genetics to describe a phenomenon where the development of an organism is altered, leading to the transformation of one body part into a similar part that would normally develop elsewhere. Homeotic transformations can occur naturally or as a result of genetic mutations.
2. Mutant: The term "mutant" comes from the Latin word "mutare", meaning "to change". In biology, a mutant refers to an organism that carries a genetic variation or mutation compared to the normal or wild-type form of the species.
