Gene: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in general and scientific contexts to refer to a unit of heredity that is transferred from a parent to offspring and determines some characteristics of the offspring.

• The gene responsible for eye color is located on chromosome 15.
• Genes play a crucial role in determining the traits of an organism.

Typically describes the sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA that determines the amino acid sequence of proteins; used in discussions about molecular biology and genetics.

• The genetic code is nearly universal among all living organisms.
• Scientists have successfully deciphered the genetic code of the virus.

Used to refer to a gene in the context of inheritance and hereditary traits, often in general or classical genetics discussions.

• Gregor Mendel's work uncovered how hereditary units are passed from parents to offspring.
• Every hereditary unit influences some characteristic of the organism.

Appropriate for emphasizing a specific part of the DNA molecule which may include one or multiple genes; often used in detailed scientific discussions.

• Researchers have identified a DNA segment that appears to control the growth of certain types of cells.
• A mutation was found in a specific DNA segment of the genome.

Use 'gene' when referring to the basic unit of heredity in living organisms, which is passed from parents to offspring and determines some characteristic.

• The gene responsible for eye color was inherited from her mother.
• Researchers are studying a specific gene that is linked to diabetes.

Use 'genetic sequence' when referring to the specific order of nucleotides in a segment of DNA or RNA.

• The genetic sequence of the virus has been mapped to develop a vaccine.
• Understanding the genetic sequence of crops can help improve their resistance to diseases.

Use 'nucleotide sequence' when discussing the precise order of nucleotides in DNA or RNA, often in a more technical or scientific context.

• The nucleotide sequence provides crucial information for genetic research.
• Mutations in the nucleotide sequence can lead to serious health problems.

The basic unit of heredity in living organisms. It contains the information needed to build and maintain cells, and it passes traits from parents to offspring.

• She inherited a gene from her father that makes her prone to diabetes

A medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins to predict the risk of diseases, determine genetic disorders, or inform personalized medical treatment.

• Genetic testing revealed that she carries the BRCA1 gene mutation, increasing her risk of breast cancer

A scientific process that involves examining the DNA sequences to identify features or characteristics. Often used in genetic research, forensic science, and medical diagnostics.

• DNA analysis was used to solve the crime after matching the samples with the suspect