TERMINATOR GENE Meaning and
Definition
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A terminator gene refers to a type of genetic modification in which specific organisms are engineered with a gene that causes their offspring to be sterile or render them unable to reproduce. This gene is nicknamed the "terminator" gene due to its intended purpose of terminating the growth and reproductive capability of subsequent generations of the modified organisms. Termed as a "genetic use restriction technology" (GURT), or more specifically as "gene sterility technology," the terminator gene functions by producing a protein or other biological compound that inhibits the normal development and viability of gametes, such as eggs or sperm.
The primary aim of terminator gene technology is to prevent the unwanted spread of genetically modified organisms into nature, agricultural environments, or neighboring non-modified ecosystems. It serves as a method to ensure that the modified organisms will not proliferate uncontrollably, preserving natural biodiversity and reducing potential environmental risks associated with genetically engineered organisms.
Terminator genes have been a topic of considerable debate and controversy due to concerns regarding their ethical implications and potential negative consequences on farmers and food security. Critics argue that terminator genes exacerbate dependency on corporations and limit farmers' ability to save seeds for future planting. Proponents, on the other hand, defend their use as a necessary safeguard to prevent unintended cross-pollination or gene flow that could lead to ecological imbalances or the loss of biodiversity.
Common Misspellings for TERMINATOR GENE
- rerminator gene
- ferminator gene
- germinator gene
- yerminator gene
- 6erminator gene
- 5erminator gene
- twrminator gene
- tsrminator gene
- tdrminator gene
- trrminator gene
- t4rminator gene
- t3rminator gene
- teeminator gene
- tedminator gene
- tefminator gene
- tetminator gene
- te5minator gene
- te4minator gene
- terninator gene
- terkinator gene
Etymology of TERMINATOR GENE
The term "terminator gene" is a compound word formed by combining the words "terminator" and "gene". Here is the etymology of each individual word:
1. Terminator: The word "terminator" comes from the Latin word "terminātor", which is derived from the verb "termināre", meaning "to set boundaries" or "to end". The Latin word "terminātor" has the same meaning and is derived from the noun "terminus", which translates to "end" or "boundary".
2. Gene: The word "gene" originates from the German noun "Gen", coined by Wilhelm Johannsen in 1909. Johannsen used it to describe fundamental units responsible for heredity. He combined it with the word "pangen", derived from the Greek "pan-" meaning "all" or "whole", to create the term "Genpangen".
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