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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.

overexpression

/ˌoʊvərɪkˈsprɛʃən/ /ˌəʊvərɪkˈsprɛʃən/

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.

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