Genetic linkage
Genetic linkage
Genetic linkage (/dʒɪˈnɛtɪk ˈlɪŋkɪdʒ/) is a fundamental concept in the field of genetics. It refers to the tendency of DNA sequences that are close together on a chromosome to be inherited together during the meiosis process.
Etymology
The term "genetic linkage" is derived from the word "genetic", which comes from the Greek word "genetikos", meaning "genitive" and "linkage" from the English language, referring to the connection or relation between two or more things.
Definition
Genetic linkage is the phenomenon where alleles located close together on a chromosome tend to be inherited together. This is due to the fact that during meiosis, the process of cell division that produces gametes, chromosomes often exchange genetic material in a process known as crossing over. However, the closer two alleles are to each other, the less likely they are to be separated by crossing over, leading to them being inherited together more often than not.
Related Terms
- Allele: One of two or more versions of a gene that are found at the same place on a chromosome.
- Chromosome: A thread-like structure of nucleic acids and protein found in the nucleus of most living cells, carrying genetic information in the form of genes.
- Crossing over: The exchange of genes between homologous chromosomes, resulting in a mixture of parental characteristics in offspring.
- DNA: Deoxyribonucleic acid, a self-replicating material present in nearly all living organisms as the main constituent of chromosomes. It is the carrier of genetic information.
- Gametes: A mature haploid male or female germ cell that is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote.
- Genetics: The study of heredity and the variation of inherited characteristics.
- Meiosis: A type of cell division that results in four daughter cells each with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell, as in the production of gametes and plant spores.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Genetic linkage
- Wikipedia's article - Genetic linkage
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