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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.

oligonucleotide

/ˌɑlɪɡoʊˈnukliəˌtaɪd/ /ˌɒlɪɡəʊˈnjuːkliətaɪd/

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.

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