Genome Dictionary - Genetics Glossary

Macrorestriction map: Map depicting the order of and distance between sites at which restriction enzymes cleave chromosomes.
Mapping: See: gene mapping, linkage map, physical map
Mapping population: The group of related organisms used in constructing a genetic map.
Marker: See: genetic marker
Mass spectrometry: An instrument used to identify chemicals in a substance by their mass and charge.
Megabase (Mb): Unit of length for DNA fragments equal to 1 million nucleotides and roughly equal to 1 cM.
See also: centimorgan
Meiosis: The process of two consecutive cell divisions in the diploid progenitors of sex cells. Meiosis results in four rather than two daughter cells, each with a haploid set of chromosomes.
See also: mitosis
Mendelian inheritance: One method in which genetic traits are passed from parents to offspring. Named for Gregor Mendel, who first studied and recognized the existence of genes and this method of inheritance.
See also: autosomal dominant, recessive gene, sex-linked
Messenger RNA (mRNA): RNA that serves as a template for protein synthesis.
See also: genetic code
Metaphase: A stage in mitosis or meiosis during which the chromosomes are aligned along the equatorial plane of the cell.
Microarray: Sets of miniaturized chemical reaction areas that may also be used to test DNA fragments, antibodies, or proteins.
Microbial genetics: The study of genes and gene function in bacteria, archaea, and other microorganisms. Often used in research in the fields of bioremediation, alternative energy, and disease prevention.
See also: model organisms, biotechnology, bioremediation
Microinjection: A technique for introducing a solution of DNA into a cell using a fine microcapillary pipet.
Micronuclei: Chromosome fragments that are not incorporated into the nucleus at cell division.
Mitochondrial DNA: The genetic material found in mitochondria, the organelles that generate energy for the cell. Not inherited in the same fashion as nucleic DNA.
See also: cell, DNA, genome, nucleus
Mitosis: The process of nuclear division in cells that produces daughter cells that are genetically identical to each other and to the parent cell.
See also: meiosis
Model organisms: A laboratory animal or other organism useful for research.
Modeling: The use of statistical analysis, computer analysis, or model organisms to predict outcomes of research.
Molecular biology: The study of the structure, function, and makeup of biologically important molecules.
Molecular farming: The development of transgenic animals to produce human proteins for medical use.
Molecular genetics: The study of macromolecules important in biological inheritance.
Molecular medicine: The treatment of injury or disease at the molecular level. Examples include the use of DNA-based diagnostic tests or medicine derived from DNA sequence information.
Monogenic disorder: A disorder caused by mutation of a single gene.
See also: mutation, polygenic disorder
Monogenic inheritance: See: monogenic disorder
Monosomy: Possessing only one copy of a particular chromosome instead of the normal two copies.
See also: cell, chromosome, gene expression, trisomy
Morbid map: A diagram showing the chromosomal location of genes associated with disease.
Mouse model: See: model organisms
Multifactorial or multigenic disorder: See: polygenic disorder
Multiplexing: A laboratory approach that performs multiple sets of reactions in parallel (simultaneously); greatly increasing speed and throughput.
Murine: Organism in the genus Mus. A rat or mouse.
Mutagen: An agent that causes a permanent genetic change in a cell. Does not include changes occurring during normal genetic recombination.
Mutagenicity: The capacity of a chemical or physical agent to cause permanent genetic alterations.
See also: somatic cell genetic mutation
Mutation: Any heritable change in DNA sequence.
See also: polymorphism




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