hemizygous Definition
having a gene present on only one chromosome of a pair, especially in males who have only one X chromosome.
Using hemizygous: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hemizygous" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Hemizygous males are more likely to express X-linked recessive disorders.
Example
The hemizygous state of the X chromosome in males is responsible for sex-linked inheritance patterns.
Summary: hemizygous in Brief
The term 'hemizygous' [hem-uh-zahy-guh s] describes the state of having a gene present on only one chromosome of a pair, particularly in males who have only one X chromosome. This condition is responsible for sex-linked inheritance patterns and makes hemizygous males more likely to express X-linked recessive disorders.