Meiotic drive
- Pronunciation
- /maɪˈɒtɪk draɪv/
- Category
- Genetics
- Plural
- Meiotic drives
Definition
A phenomenon where a particular allele or chromosome is inherited by offspring more frequently than expected due to its preferential transmission during meiosis.
Etymology
From Greek 'meiosis' meaning 'lessening' and 'drive' meaning 'propel forward'.
Example
In some species of Drosophila, meiotic drive can result in an excess of offspring inheriting a specific chromosome even though it carries a detrimental allele.