How Do You Spell HAPLOZYGOUS?

Pronunciation: [hˌapləzˈɪɡəs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "haplozygous" is based on its Greek roots. The prefix "haplo-" means "single" and the suffix "-zygous" means "having a pair of genes." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˌhæpləˈzaɪɡəs/. The stress falls on the second syllable, which begins with the voiced "z" sound. This word is commonly used in genetics to describe an individual with only one copy of a particular gene, as opposed to a diploid organism with two copies.

Meaning and Definition
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HAPLOZYGOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. Haplozygous is an adjective used primarily in the field of genetics to describe an individual or organism that carries two different alleles or copies of a particular gene, on corresponding loci of a pair of homologous chromosomes. In simple terms, it refers to the condition where an organism possesses two contrasting forms of a gene.

    The term "haplozygous" is derived from the word "haploid," which signifies the presence of a single set of chromosomes in a cell, as opposed to the diploid, which contains two sets. In haplozygous individuals, one of the two alleles dominates the expression of the trait being examined, while the other remains recessive or is suppressed.

    Usually, haplozygous status arises when one of the copies of the gene is lost through deletion or mutation, leaving only one functioning allele. In rare cases, the phenomenon may also be observed when a particular gene is absent on one chromosome but present on the other.

    Haplozygosity can have significant implications for inherited diseases, as it increases the likelihood of recessive disorders being expressed. For instance, if a single copy of a recessive gene responsible for a certain condition is present, the individual will exhibit symptoms or traits associated with that disorder. However, due to the absence of a second copy, the condition is generally less severe or distinct than in individuals who are homozygous for the recessive allele.

Common Misspellings for HAPLOZYGOUS

Etymology of HAPLOZYGOUS

The term "haplozygous" is a combination of two words: "haplo" and "zygous".

1. "Haplo" comes from the Greek word "haplous" (ἁπλοῦς), meaning "single" or "simple". It is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "ṣéplos", which means "single" or "alone". This root is also seen in other English words with a similar meaning, such as "haploid" and "simplex".

2. "Zygous" is derived from the Greek word "zygon" (ζυγόν), which means "yoke" or "pair". In biology, it refers to a pair of chromosomes or a condition where chromosomes occur in pairs.