lethal gene

noun Genetics.

a gene that under certain conditions causes the death of an organism.

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Nearby words

letha, lethal, lethal chamber, lethal dose, lethal factor, lethal gene, lethal midline granuloma, lethal mutation, lethality, lethally, lethargic

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. 2019

Medicine definitions for lethal mutation (1 of 2)

lethal mutation

n.

A mutant trait that leads to a phenotype incapable of effective reproduction.

Medicine definitions for lethal mutation (2 of 2)

lethal gene

n.

A gene whose expression results in the death of the organism.

The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.