Definition

The effect of one gene on several different traits or characteristics in an organism.

Example

Pleiotropy can explain why certain genetic disorders affect multiple systems in the body.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of pleiotropy in genetics?

Yeah, I think it means one gene can affect multiple traits, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how a single gene can influence things like height and eye color.

It really is! I love learning about how complex genetics can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pleiotropy → It is formed from "pleio-" (from Greek "pleion", meaning more) and "tropē" (from Greek "tropos", meaning turn or change). The term describes a single gene influencing multiple traits, hence the idea of one source leading to many changes.

Memory Tip

Think of a single source ('pleio-') that leads to 'more' changes ('tropē') in traits, which helps you remember that pleiotropy refers to one gene affecting multiple characteristics.

Visually Confused Words