POLYGENIC Meaning and
Definition
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Polygenic is an adjective that refers to a trait or characteristic that is influenced by multiple genes. It describes a condition or phenotype that is determined by the combined effect of numerous genetic variations rather than being controlled by a single gene alone. In other words, polygenic traits arise from the interplay of multiple genes and their interactions with the environment, resulting in a wide range of possible outcomes.
Polygenic traits often display a continuous distribution, meaning they can vary across a range rather than being present or absent like Mendelian traits. Some commonly known examples of polygenic traits include height, skin color, and intelligence. These traits are influenced by many genetic factors, each of which contributes a small effect. The cumulative impact of these multiple genetic variants gives rise to the observed variation in these traits among individuals within a population.
Polygenic inheritance is a concept that reflects the complexity of genetic inheritance and highlights the interaction between genes and the environment in determining multifactorial traits. Geneticists employ various statistical methods, such as genome-wide association studies, to identify the specific genes involved in influencing polygenic traits. Understanding polygenic inheritance is pivotal in unraveling the genetic basis of complex traits and diseases, contributing to advancements in personalized medicine and genetic research.
Common Misspellings for POLYGENIC
Etymology of POLYGENIC
The word "polygenic" is derived from two Greek roots: "poly" meaning "many" and "genos" meaning "kind" or "origin". In this context, "poly" refers to multiple or many, and "genos" pertains to the genes or origin. Combining these roots, "polygenic" refers to a trait or characteristic that is influenced by multiple genes.
Similar spelling words for POLYGENIC
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