noun
- the phenomenon in genetics where a single gene influences multiple, seemingly unrelated traits or characteristics
Usage: genetics; biology
Examples
- Pleiotropy explains why mutations in one gene can affect multiple body systems.
- The researcher studied pleiotropy to understand how genetic disorders cause diverse symptoms.
- Marfan syndrome demonstrates pleiotropy, as one gene defect affects the heart, eyes, and skeletal system.
- Understanding pleiotropy helps scientists predict the wide-ranging effects of genetic variations.
- The concept of pleiotropy shows that genes don’t always control just one trait.
- Medical geneticists consider pleiotropy when diagnosing complex inherited conditions.