TRANSGENE Meaning and
Definition
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A transgene is a segment of DNA that has been artificially introduced into the genome of an organism, especially a plant or animal, through techniques such as genetic engineering. It can be a single gene or a combination of genes derived from different species, typically with the purpose of conferring a specific trait or characteristic to the host organism. Transgenesis, the process of introducing such genetic material, is often employed in agricultural and biomedical research to enhance crop yield, improve disease resistance, or produce valuable pharmaceutical substances.
The introduced transgene is usually integrated into the genome of the host organism, either by direct insertion into the chromosomes or by integration into organelle genomes, such as mitochondria or chloroplasts. Once integrated, the transgene becomes a heritable part of the organism's genetic material and can be transmitted to subsequent generations.
Transgenes are typically engineered using recombinant DNA technology, which involves the isolation and manipulation of DNA fragments from different sources. These fragments can be modified and combined to optimize their function and ensure their successful expression in the host organism. The introduced transgenes often harbor regulatory elements, such as promoters and terminators, to control their expression and ensure appropriate levels of gene activity.
In summary, a transgene refers to a segment of DNA that has been artificially introduced into a living organism's genome to confer a specific trait or characteristic. Transgenes are commonly used in research and agriculture to enhance desirable traits or produce valuable products.
Common Misspellings for TRANSGENE
- rransgene
- fransgene
- gransgene
- yransgene
- 6ransgene
- 5ransgene
- teansgene
- tdansgene
- tfansgene
- ttansgene
- t5ansgene
- t4ansgene
- trznsgene
- trsnsgene
- trwnsgene
- trqnsgene
- trabsgene
- tramsgene
- trajsgene
- trahsgene
Etymology of TRANSGENE
The word "transgene" stems from the combination of two roots: "trans-" and "gene".
1. "Trans-" is a Latin prefix meaning "across", "beyond", or "on the other side". It generally denotes movement or position from one side to another. For instance, it is commonly used in words like "transport", "transit", and "translation".
2. "Gene" comes from the Greek word "génon", which means "to produce" or "to be born". In modern context, a gene refers to a specific segment of DNA that carries genetic information for a particular trait or characteristic.
Therefore, "transgene" is a term coined to describe a gene that has been transferred or moved across from one organism to another, typically through genetic engineering techniques.
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