Multifactorial
Multifactorial (pronunciation: /ˌmʌltiːfækˈtɔːrɪəl/) is a term used in medicine and genetics to describe a trait or condition that is influenced by multiple genes and environmental factors.
Etymology
The term "multifactorial" is derived from the Latin words "multi" meaning many, and "factorial" meaning factors. It was first used in the context of genetics in the mid-20th century.
Definition
In the field of medicine, multifactorial refers to the interplay of various genetic and environmental factors in the causation of a disease or trait. These factors can include lifestyle, diet, exposure to toxins, and other environmental influences, in addition to multiple genetic factors.
Related Terms
- Polygenic: A trait or condition that is influenced by more than one gene. This is similar to multifactorial, but does not necessarily include environmental factors.
- Genetic predisposition: A genetic influence that makes an individual more likely to develop a particular condition. This is often a component of multifactorial conditions.
- Environmental factor: An external influence that can affect an individual's health or traits. These can include lifestyle, diet, exposure to toxins, and other influences.
- Gene-environment interaction: The interplay between genetic and environmental factors in influencing an individual's traits or health.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Multifactorial
- Wikipedia's article - Multifactorial
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