homozygous
0 synonyms and 1 antonyms for homozygous, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Having two identical versions of a particular gene, one inherited from each parent.
Antonyms
How to Use Homozygous
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Technical; used in genetics, medicine and agriculture.
Etymology
From Greek homos meaning 'same' and zygotos meaning 'yoked together'.
Full origin of homozygous →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between homozygous and heterozygous?
Homozygous means the two copies of a gene are identical, such as AA or aa. Heterozygous means they differ, such as Aa, in which case the dominant allele usually decides the visible trait.
What does homozygous recessive mean?
It means both copies of the gene are the recessive version, written aa. Because there is no dominant copy to mask it, the recessive trait shows up in the individual.
Can you be homozygous for a disease?
Yes. For recessive conditions such as cystic fibrosis, symptoms appear only when a person carries two faulty copies. Someone with one faulty copy is a heterozygous carrier and is usually unaffected.