Overexpression - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Overexpression refers to the excessive production of a gene, protein, or other cellular component, often leading to altered biological functions or disease. It is commonly studied in genetics and molecular biology.
Definition:
Excessive production of a gene or protein, often linked to disease or abnormal conditions.
Synonyms:
overproduction, hyperexpression, upregulation
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
underexpression, suppression
Common Collocations:
gene overexpression, protein overexpression, overexpression analysis
Derivatives:
overexpress (verb), overexpressed (adjective)
Usage Tips:
Use "overexpression" in scientific contexts to describe abnormally high gene or protein activity.
Common Phrases:
overexpression of genes, overexpression in cancer, overexpression studies
Etymology:
Derived from "over-" (excessive) + "expression" (biological production), first used in genetics and molecular biology.
Examples:
- 1. The scientist studied the overexpression of the protein in cancer cells.
- 2. Overexpression of certain genes can lead to developmental abnormalities.
- 3. Researchers detected overexpression of the enzyme in the diseased tissue.
- 4. The lab confirmed the gene's overexpression through advanced testing methods.