polygene

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Word: Polygene

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A polygene is a type of gene that does not have a big effect on its own but can work together with other genes to create noticeable differences in traits or characteristics. For example, many traits, like height or skin color, are influenced by multiple genes working together.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "polygene" when discussing genetics, especially in the context of traits that are influenced by multiple genes rather than just one.

Example:

• "The height of a person is determined by several polygenes, meaning that many different genes contribute to how tall they grow."

Advanced Usage:

• In genetics research, scientists often study polygenes to understand complex traits and how they are inherited. For example, they may analyze how polygenes contribute to susceptibility to certain diseases or to physical characteristics.

Word Variants:

• Polygenic (adjective): Relating to or involving multiple genes.
  • Example: "The polygenic inheritance of skin color shows that many genes play a role in determining this trait."
• Polygenetic (adjective): Another form of polygenic, often used in the same context.
  • Example: "The polygenetic model explains how various genes influence the same trait."

Different Meaning:

• The term "polygene" is specifically used in genetics and does not have different meanings in other contexts.

Synonyms:

• Multigenic: Referring to traits controlled by multiple genes.
• Quantitative trait locus (QTL): A term used in genetics that describes the region of DNA that is associated with a particular phenotypic trait.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs that specifically relate to "polygene," as it is a technical term primarily used in scientific discussions.

Summary:

"Polygene" is a scientific term used in genetics to describe a gene that works with other genes to influence observable traits.

Academic

Noun

1. a gene that by itself has little effect on the phenotype but which can act together with others to produce observable variations