Structural gene

Pronunciation
/struc-tural jean/
Category
Genetics
Singular
Structural gene
Plural
Structural genes

Definition

Genes that encode proteins involved in the physical structure of an organism, such as those responsible for cell shape, muscle development, and cuticle formation.

Etymology

From Latin 'structus', meaning 'built' or 'constructed', and 'gene'.

Example

Structural genes are essential for the development of a fly's wing structure.

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