Pseudogene
Pseudogene
Pseudogene (/ˈsjuːdoʊˌdʒiːn/; from the Greek pseudo, meaning 'false', and gene) is a section of a chromosome that is an imperfect copy of a functional gene. These sequences of DNA have been identified in the genomes of both prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.
Etymology
The term "pseudogene" was first coined in 1977 by Jacq et al. The prefix "pseudo-" is derived from the Greek word ψευδής (pseudēs), meaning "false". The suffix "-gene" is from the Greek word γένος (genos), meaning "race, kind". Thus, a pseudogene is a "false gene".
Classification
Pseudogenes can be classified into two main types: processed and unprocessed pseudogenes.
- Processed pseudogenes are formed by retrotransposition, a process in which mRNA is reverse-transcribed back into DNA and inserted into the chromosome.
- Unprocessed pseudogenes are formed by gene duplication, where a second copy of a gene is created and then accumulates mutations over time.
Function
Traditionally, pseudogenes have been considered as non-functional by-products of genome evolution. However, recent studies have suggested that some pseudogenes may have a regulatory role, influencing the expression of other genes.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pseudogene
- Wikipedia's article - Pseudogene
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