Definition

A type of cell that has two or more nuclei that are genetically different from each other.

Example

In certain fungi, a heterokaryon can form when two different strains fuse together.

Conversation

I was reading about fungi and came across the term heterokaryon today.

Oh really? What does it mean?

It refers to a cell that has two or more genetically different nuclei.

That's interesting! I had no idea cells could be so complex.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterokaryon → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "karyon" (from Greek "karyon", meaning nucleus or kernel). The word describes a cell that contains nuclei from different genetic origins, hence the term 'different nucleus'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hetero-' meaning 'different' and 'karyon' meaning 'nucleus' — a heterokaryon is a cell with different nuclei.

Visually Confused Words