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Deletion

Synonym(s)

  • gene deletion

Definition(s)

Absence of a segment of DNA; may be as small as a single base or large enough to encompass one or more entire genes. Large deletions involving a whole segment of a chromosome may be detected by routine examination of the chromosomes; intermediate deletions involving a few genes may be detected by using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH); smaller deletions involving a portion of a gene may only be detected by analyzing the DNA.

Definition from: GeneTestsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the University of Washington and Children's Health System, Seattle

A loss of part of the DNA from a chromosome; can lead to a disease or abnormality.

Definition from: Human Genome Project InformationThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. at the U.S. Department of Energy

A particular kind of mutation: loss of a piece of DNA from a chromosome. Deletion of a gene or part of a gene can lead to a disease or abnormality.

Definition from: Talking Glossary of Genetic TermsThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. from the National Human Genome Research Institute

Related discussion in the Handbook

 
Published: January 23, 2009