Clonal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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clonal
[ˈkloʊnəl ]
Definition
biology term
Clonal refers to organisms or cells that are derived from a single ancestor, sharing identical genetic material. This term is often used in the context of cloning, where the genetic information is replicated to produce identical copies. Clonal organisms can arise naturally, such as in asexual reproduction, or artificially through scientific techniques. Clonal populations are significant in studies of genetics, evolution, and biodiversity.
Synonyms
cloned, identical, replicated.
Examples of usage
- Clonal cell lines are used in research.
- Many plants can reproduce clonally.
- The study focused on clonal variation in bacteria.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Clonal reproduction allows organisms to maintain successful genetic traits across generations, as seen in many plants.
- In the lab, scientists often create clonal populations to study specific genes and their effects.
- Certain animals, like starfish, can regenerate lost parts through clonal methods, forming new individuals from one arm.
Technology
- Clonal technology is vital in stem cell research; scientists create clones of cells to study diseases or test treatments.
- Biotechnology uses clonal cultures of plants to produce disease-resistant varieties for agriculture.
- Genetic engineering allows for the creation of clonal organisms with desirable traits, like bigger fruits or faster growth.
Health
- Clonal expansion is a process in immunology where certain immune cells proliferate to fight infections effectively.
- In cancer research, scientists study clonal populations of cancer cells to understand how tumors grow and develop resistance to treatments.
- Certain therapies use clonal antibodies to target diseases specifically, enhancing treatment efficacy.
Pop Culture
- Clonal themes appear frequently in science fiction, exploring the ethical implications of cloning in stories like 'Blade Runner'.
- Video games, such as 'Portal', use clonal mechanics and puzzles that involve creating duplicates of characters.
- Movies like 'The Island' present dystopian views on cloning, showcasing the moral dilemmas of creating human clones.
Origin of 'clonal'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Greek word 'klon', meaning 'twig' or 'branch', which reflects natural reproduction methods.
- The term 'clonal' entered the scientific vocabulary in the mid-20th century as research in genetics and horticulture advanced.
- In botany, 'clonal' signifies plants that propagate through asexual means, like cuttings or runners.
The word 'clonal' originates from 'clone', which was derived from the Greek word 'klon', meaning 'twig' or 'branch'. The use of the term in genetics began in the early 20th century, specifically relating to the process of creating a genetic copy of an organism or a cell. Cloning techniques evolved significantly over the decades, leading to advancements in both natural and artificial methods of reproduction. Today's usage encompasses a wide range of biological fields, including microbiology, agriculture, and conservation biology, reflecting the growing importance of clonal studies in understanding genetic diversity and stability.