genetic marker

American  

noun

1. any distinct inheritable indicator of identity and ancestry.

2. HLA antigen.

3. a chromosomal landmark or allele that allows for the tracing of a specific region of DNA, as in the study of recombination.

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genetic marker British  

noun

1. a gene with two or more alternative forms, producing readily identifiable variations in a particular character, used in studies of linkage, genetic mapping, and identification of the presence of other genes that are closely linked to, and therefore usually inherited with, it

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genetic marker Scientific  

1. A gene or DNA sequence having a known location on a chromosome. Genetic markers associated with certain diseases can be used to determine whether an individual is at risk for developing an inherited disease.

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Etymology

Origin of genetic marker

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

genetic marker

Each vertebrate species has its own version of this genetic marker.

From Science Daily ● Jan. 15, 2026

The research gives a reliable genetic marker for plant breeders to know what strains they are dealing with.

From Salon ● Oct. 2, 2023

“Here’s good evidence that a strongly African genetic marker shows up really early,” says Louisiana State University geographer Andrew Sluyter, who was not involved in the research.

From Science Magazine ● Sep. 22, 2023

But now Barb fixated on exactly what they were told — how the field was in its infancy and how just because they couldn’t find a genetic marker didn’t mean one wasn’t there.

From New York Times ● Jul. 20, 2023

He told them to go back to their labs after the conference and start testing cells for the G6PD-A genetic marker, to see how widespread this problem might be.

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot