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lethal gene

noun Genetics.
  1. a gene that under certain conditions causes the death of an organism.
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Origin of lethal gene

First recorded in 1935–40
Also called lethal factor, lethal mutation.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
lethal factor in Medicine

lethal factor

n.
  1. A gene mutation or chromosomal structural change that when expressed causes death before sexual maturity.
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lethal gene

n.
  1. A gene whose expression results in the death of the organism.
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The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.