ALLELISM Meaning and
Definition
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Allelism is a concept in genetics that refers to the occurrence of different forms or variants of a gene, known as alleles, in a population or individual. It describes the phenomenon where multiple alleles of a gene exist within a gene pool or organism.
Genes are segments of DNA that carry the instructions for producing specific traits or characteristics. Alleles are alternate versions of a gene that can result in variations of the same trait. For instance, the gene responsible for eye color can have different alleles, such as blue, brown, or green, resulting in different eye colors in individuals.
Allelism plays an essential role in genetic diversity and evolution. It is a fundamental principle in understanding inheritance patterns and genetic variation among individuals and populations. The presence of multiple alleles for a particular gene allows for greater phenotypic diversity within a population, contributing to biological adaptation and natural selection.
The study of allelism, also known as allelic variation, provides insights into the inheritance patterns of specific traits or diseases. It helps scientists understand the mechanisms behind genetic disorders, genetic predispositions, and the transmission of genetic traits across generations.
Allelism is often explored through genetic experiments, such as DNA sequencing, genotyping, and pedigree analysis. By investigating the presence and distribution of different alleles, scientists can unravel the complexity of inheritance patterns and gain a deeper understanding of the genetic makeup of organisms.
Etymology of ALLELISM
The word "allelism" is derived from the term "allele", which in turn comes from the Greek word "allelon" (ἀλλήλων). "Allelon" means "of one another" or "mutually". "Allele" refers to different forms or versions of a particular gene that occupy the same locus or position on a chromosome. Therefore, "allelism" refers to the state or condition of having different alleles at a specific gene locus.
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