Homozygous meaning

Homozygous refers to an individual having two identical alleles for a particular gene.


Homozygous definitions

Word backwards suogyzomoh
Part of speech Adjective
Syllabic division ho-mo-zy-gous
Plural The plural of the word homozygous is homozygotes.
Total letters 10
Vogais (2) o,u
Consonants (6) h,m,z,y,g,s

Homozygous refers to the condition when an individual has two identical alleles of a particular gene, whether dominant or recessive. This means that both copies of the gene are the same, leading to a specific genetic trait or characteristic being expressed.

Genetic Inheritance

In genetic inheritance, individuals can be homozygous for a specific trait if they received the same allele from both parents. For example, if both parents pass on the allele for brown eyes, the individual will be homozygous for brown eye color.

Types of Homozygosity

There are two main types of homozygosity: homozygous dominant and homozygous recessive. In homozygous dominant individuals, both alleles are dominant, resulting in the dominant trait being expressed. On the other hand, homozygous recessive individuals have two recessive alleles, leading to the recessive trait being displayed.

Genetic Disorders

Homozygosity can also play a role in genetic disorders. In some cases, being homozygous for a particular mutated gene can result in the manifestation of a genetic disorder. This is often the case with autosomal recessive disorders, where an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to display symptoms.

Overall, homozygous individuals have an increased likelihood of displaying a specific trait or genetic disorder due to having two identical alleles for a particular gene. Understanding homozygosity is essential in the field of genetics and can provide valuable insights into how genetic traits are passed down from generation to generation.


Homozygous Examples

  1. In genetics, a homozygous individual has two identical alleles for a particular gene.
  2. A homozygous plant will produce offspring with the same genetic traits.
  3. Homozygous twins share the same genetic makeup.
  4. Breeding two homozygous animals can result in offspring with predictable traits.
  5. Identifying homozygous genotypes is crucial for understanding inheritance patterns.
  6. A homozygous mutation can lead to genetic disorders.
  7. Homozygous individuals are more likely to exhibit recessive traits.
  8. Selective breeding aims to increase the frequency of homozygous individuals with desired traits.
  9. Homozygous genotypes can be determined through genetic testing.
  10. Genetic diversity is reduced in populations with a high prevalence of homozygous individuals.


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  • Updated 04/05/2024 - 20:32:00