plural genes
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material
Examples of gene in a Sentence
She inherited a good set of genes from her parents.
Recent Examples on the Web
If genetic testing for hereditary cancer is recommended (e.g., for mutations in the BRCA1 or 2 genes, or genes associated with Lynch syndrome), ask whether testing for genes associated with medication response can also be ordered.
3.
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Ellen Matloff, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
This can happen due to mutations in the gene that codes for β-catenin.
—Robert Burakoff, Verywell Health, 1 Nov. 2024
Women’s bodies are decidedly different from men’s, with unique organs, genes, hormones, and other key differences.
—Stacey Colino, TIME, 1 Nov. 2024
In animals, loss-of-function mutations in the MC1R gene can result in light, yellow or reddish coat color.
—Elizabeth Carlen, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024
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Ellen Matloff, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
This can happen due to mutations in the gene that codes for β-catenin.
—Robert Burakoff, Verywell Health, 1 Nov. 2024
Women’s bodies are decidedly different from men’s, with unique organs, genes, hormones, and other key differences.
—Stacey Colino, TIME, 1 Nov. 2024
In animals, loss-of-function mutations in the MC1R gene can result in light, yellow or reddish coat color.
—Elizabeth Carlen, Discover Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for gene
Dictionary Entries Near gene
Cite this Entry
“Gene.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gene. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
gene
noun
: a part of DNA or sometimes RNA that is usually located on a chromosome and that contains chemical information needed to make a particular protein (as an enzyme) controlling or influencing an inherited bodily trait or activity (as eye color or metabolism) or that influences or controls the activity of another gene or genes
Medical Definition
gene
noun
: a specific sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that is located usually on a chromosome and that is the functional unit of inheritance controlling the transmission and expression of one or more traits by specifying the structure of a particular polypeptide and especially a protein or controlling the function of other genetic material
called also determinant, determiner, factor
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