homology Definition
- 1the state of having the same or similar relation, relative position, or structure
- 2biology: similarity in sequence of a protein or nucleic acid between organisms of the same or different species
Using homology: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "homology" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The homology between the wings of a bird and those of an insect is striking.
Example
The homology between the human hand and the bat's wing is an example of convergent evolution.
Example
Homology can be used to infer evolutionary relationships between species.
homology Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for homology
Antonyms for homology
Phrases with homology
homologous structures
structures in different species that are similar because of common ancestry
Example
The forelimbs of mammals, birds, and reptiles are homologous structures.
a computational method used to predict the three-dimensional structure of a protein based on its amino acid sequence and the known structure of a related protein
Example
Homology modeling is useful for studying proteins that are difficult to crystallize.
Example
The homology group of a sphere is different from that of a torus.
Origins of homology
from Greek 'homologia', meaning 'agreement'
Summary: homology in Brief
Homology [huh-mol-uh-jee] refers to the state of having the same or similar relation, relative position, or structure. In biology, it refers to the similarity in sequence of a protein or nucleic acid between organisms of the same or different species. Homology can be used to infer evolutionary relationships between species, and is exemplified by homologous structures like the forelimbs of mammals, birds, and reptiles.
