Genetic polymorphism

Genetic polymorphism is a term used in genetics to describe the occurrence of two or more different forms, or phenotypes, in the population of a species. To be classified as such, each phenotype must exist in the population at a rate of at least 1%.

Definition

Genetic polymorphism is a variation in the DNA that is too common to be due merely to new mutation. Genetic polymorphism affects the sequence of DNA in a gene. This can lead to different forms of a protein, each of which has a different function.

Types of Genetic Polymorphism

There are two main types of genetic polymorphism:

• Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs): These are the most common type of genetic variation. Each SNP represents a difference in a single DNA building block, called a nucleotide.

• Copy number variations (CNVs): These are another type of genetic variation. CNVs represent a variation in the number of copies of a particular gene in a person's DNA.

Role in Disease

Genetic polymorphisms can play a role in the development of disease. For example, certain genetic polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of developing diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

Genetic Polymorphism and Drug Response

Genetic polymorphisms can also affect how a person responds to medications. This is because genetic polymorphisms can influence the function of enzymes that metabolize drugs, potentially leading to variations in drug response.

See Also

• Genetics
• Phenotype
• Genotype
• Mutation

References

Genetic polymorphism Resources
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