Heterokaryon
Heterokaryon
Heterokaryon (pronunciation: /ˌhɛtəroʊˈkɛriən/) is a term used in the field of Cell Biology to describe a cell that contains two or more genetically different nuclei within a common cytoplasm. The term is derived from the Greek words 'heteros' meaning different and 'karyon' meaning nucleus.
Etymology
The term 'Heterokaryon' is derived from the Greek words 'heteros' meaning different and 'karyon' meaning nucleus. It was first used in the early 20th century to describe cells that had been artificially fused to combine the nuclei from two different cells.
Definition
A Heterokaryon is a cell that contains two or more genetically different nuclei within a common cytoplasm. This can occur naturally, for example in certain types of fungi, or it can be artificially induced in a laboratory setting. The nuclei within a heterokaryon continue to function independently, maintaining their original genetic characteristics.
Related Terms
- Hybrid (biology): A hybrid is an organism that is the result of a cross between two genetically distinct individuals. A heterokaryon can be considered a type of hybrid at the cellular level.
- Cytoplasm: The cytoplasm is the part of a cell that is enclosed within the cell membrane, but outside the nucleus. In a heterokaryon, the different nuclei share a common cytoplasm.
- Nucleus (cell): The nucleus is the part of a cell that contains the majority of the cell's genetic material. In a heterokaryon, there are two or more genetically distinct nuclei.
- Cell fusion: Cell fusion is a process by which two or more cells become one by merging their membranes and cytoplasm. This process can result in the formation of a heterokaryon.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Heterokaryon
- Wikipedia's article - Heterokaryon
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