Oligonucleotide - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An oligonucleotide is a short sequence of DNA or RNA molecules, typically used in research, diagnostics, and therapies for targeting specific genetic sequences.
Definition:
A short DNA or RNA molecule with a small number of nucleotides.
Synonyms:
oligomer, polynucleotide, nucleic acid fragment
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
(No direct antonyms; context-dependent) long DNA strand, complete genome
Common Collocations:
synthetic oligonucleotide, oligonucleotide synthesis, oligonucleotide probe
Derivatives:
oligonucleosomal, oligonucleotidic
Usage Tips:
Use "oligonucleotide" when referring to short sequences in genetics or molecular biology contexts.
Common Phrases:
(No common phrases or idioms)
Etymology:
From Greek "oligo-" (few) + "nucleotide" (basic unit of DNA/RNA).
Examples:
- 1. Scientists use oligonucleotides to study gene function.
- 2. The lab synthesized a custom oligonucleotide for the experiment.
- 3. Oligonucleotides are essential tools in PCR amplification.
- 4. She designed an oligonucleotide probe to detect mutations.