Molecular diagnosis
- Pronunciation
- /MOH-lek-yuh-lar dih-AG-nos-tis/
- Category
- Diagnosis
Definition
The use of techniques such as DNA sequencing and gene expression analysis to identify and diagnose diseases based on the underlying genetic or molecular abnormalities.
Etymology
From Latin 'molecula', meaning 'a small mass', and 'diagnosis', meaning 'the act of determining the nature of a disease'.
Example
Molecular diagnosis is increasingly used to identify genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis.
Related Terms
- Genetics
- Genetic testing
- Biomarkers