Genes: meaning, definitions and examples
๐งฌ
genes
[dสiหnz ]
Definition
genetics
Genes are the basic physical and functional units of heredity. They are made up of DNA and act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases.
Synonyms
DNA sequence, genetic code, hereditary unit.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| genes |
Commonly used in everyday language and basic biology. Refers to the fundamental units of heredity that are passed from parents to offspring.
|
| genetic code |
Refers to the set of rules by which information encoded in genetic material (DNA or RNA sequences) is translated into proteins by living cells. Often used in molecular biology and bioinformatics.
|
| DNA sequence |
Used in scientific and technical discussions to refer to the specific order of nucleotides in a DNA molecule.
|
| hereditary unit |
More formal or academic term for a gene. Used in scientific literature to emphasize the role of genes in inheritance.
|
Examples of usage
- Each gene carries a set of instructions that determine specific traits, such as eye color or blood type.
- Mutations in genes can lead to genetic disorders.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term 'gene' comes from the Greek word 'genesis', meaning 'birth' or 'origin'.
- It was first coined in the early 20th century as scientists began to understand heredity and reproduction.
- Genetics, the study of genes, emerged as a field thanks to Gregor Mendelโs work with pea plants in the 1860s.
Science
- Humans have approximately 20,000 to 25,000 genes within their DNA.
- Genes are made up of sequences of DNA, and the order of these sequences determines how organisms develop and function.
- Mutations in genes can lead to variations or diseases, sometimes giving insights into evolution and natural selection.
Pop Culture
- The study of genes has inspired pop culture references, such as the popular TV show 'Gattaca', which explores genetics and identity.
- In the music world, the band 'The Gene Loves Jezebel' uses the theme of genes in their name, highlighting the link between genetics and personal identity.
- A famous book series called 'The Hunger Games' includes themes of genetic engineering and its impact on society.
Psychology
- Research has shown that certain traits, such as intelligence and personality, may have genetic influences, sparking debates about nature vs. nurture.
- Studies indicate that links exist between genes and mental health, with some conditions being more prevalent in individuals with a family history.
- Behavioral genetics aims to uncover how much of our behavior is determined by our genetic makeup versus environmental factors.
Technology
- The field of CRISPR technology allows scientists to edit genes, which has great potential for treating genetic disorders.
- Synthetic biology is a branch of science that combines biology and engineering to redesign organisms for useful purposes, including gene manipulation.
- Personal DNA testing kits allow individuals to explore their genetic makeup, ancestry, and even health risks, making genetics accessible to the public.
Translations
Translations of the word "genes" in other languages:
๐ต๐น genes
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคจ
๐ฉ๐ช Gene
๐ฎ๐ฉ gen
๐บ๐ฆ ะณะตะฝะธ
๐ต๐ฑ geny
๐ฏ๐ต ้บไผๅญ
๐ซ๐ท gรจnes
๐ช๐ธ genes
๐น๐ท genler
๐ฐ๐ท ์ ์ ์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุฌููุงุช
๐จ๐ฟ geny
๐ธ๐ฐ gรฉny
๐จ๐ณ ๅบๅ
๐ธ๐ฎ geni
๐ฎ๐ธ gen
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะณะตะฝะดะตั
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ genlษr
๐ฒ๐ฝ genes
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #4,370, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.
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