Definition

1. Noun:
   • A branch of genetics: "Molecular genetics" is the scientific field concerned with the structure, function, and activity of genes and genetic material at the molecular level. It focuses on DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis to understand how genetic information is stored, replicated, expressed, and regulated.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Advances in molecular genetics have revolutionized our understanding of hereditary diseases.
  • Her research in molecular genetics focuses on gene expression in cancer cells.
  • The discovery of the DNA double helix was a foundational moment for molecular genetics.

Advanced Usage

• "The tools of molecular genetics": This phrase refers to the laboratory techniques and technologies (e.g., PCR, DNA sequencing, gene cloning) used in this field.
  • Using the tools of molecular genetics, scientists identified the specific mutation.

Variants and Related Words

• Molecular geneticist (n): A scientist who specializes in molecular genetics.
  • The molecular geneticist presented her findings on the new gene variant.
• Molecular genetic (adj): Pertaining to molecular genetics.
  • They conducted a molecular genetic analysis of the sample.

Synonyms

• Genetic molecular biology: A closely related term emphasizing the biological processes at the molecular level.
• Genomics: A broader, more modern field that involves the large-scale study of genomes, heavily reliant on molecular genetics principles and tools.

Related Phrases

• Molecular genetic testing: Diagnostic testing that analyzes DNA or RNA to identify genetic variations.
  • The hospital offers molecular genetic testing for inherited conditions.

Noun

1. the branch of genetics concerned with the structure and activity of genetic material at the molecular level