Homologous
Homologous
Homologous (pronunciation: /həˈmɒləɡəs/) is a term used in various fields of study including biology, medicine, and genetics. The term originates from the Greek words 'homos' meaning same and 'logos' meaning relation.
In a broad sense, homologous refers to two or more elements that share a similar origin and structure, but may have different functions. This concept is often used to describe organs or genetic sequences that are similar in different species due to common ancestry.
In Biology
In biology, homologous structures are those that have a similar structure and position in different organisms because of their common ancestry. For example, the human arm, the wing of a bird, and the flipper of a dolphin are all homologous structures. They have a similar arrangement of bones, but each performs a different function.
In Genetics
In genetics, homologous chromosomes or homologs are pairs of chromosomes in a diploid organism that carry the same genes in the same order, but may carry different alleles of the same gene. During meiosis, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange segments of DNA in a process known as homologous recombination.
In Medicine
In medicine, homologous refers to tissues or cells that are genetically identical or closely related, such as those from the same individual or from a closely related donor. For example, a homologous blood transfusion involves the transfusion of blood from a donor to a recipient of the same species.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Homologous
- Wikipedia's article - Homologous
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