gene

[dʒiːn]

gene Definition

• 1. a unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and determines some characteristic of the offspring
• 2. a distinct sequence of nucleotides forming part of a chromosome, the order of which determines the order of monomers in a polypeptide or nucleic acid molecule which a cell (or virus) may synthesize

Using gene: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gene" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The gene for blue eyes is recessive.

• Example

  Genes determine an organism's traits.

• Example

  Mutations can alter genes.

• Example

  The human genome contains about 20,000-25,000 genes.

gene Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for gene

• unit of heredity
• genetic code
• DNA sequence

Phrases with gene

• gene pool

  the total number of genes of every individual in an interbreeding population

  Example

  The gene pool of the endangered species is shrinking.

• gene therapy

  the transplantation of normal genes into cells in place of missing or defective ones in order to correct genetic disorders

  Example

  Gene therapy has shown promise in treating certain genetic diseases.

• gene expression

  the process by which the information encoded in a gene is used to direct the assembly of a protein molecule

  Example

  Gene expression can be regulated by various factors.

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Summary: gene in Brief

A 'gene' [dʒiːn] is a unit of heredity that determines a characteristic of an offspring. It is a sequence of nucleotides that forms part of a chromosome, determining the order of monomers in a polypeptide or nucleic acid molecule. 'Gene' is used in phrases like 'gene pool,' referring to the total number of genes in a population, and 'gene therapy,' which transplants normal genes to correct genetic disorders.