dysgenesis
dis-JEN-uh-sis
Definition
A phenomenon where crossbreeding between certain strains or populations leads to harmful genetic effects, such as reduced fertility or developmental abnormalities, often caused by the movement of mobile genetic elements.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'dys-' meaning 'bad' or 'difficult' and 'genesis' meaning 'origin' or 'creation'. It was coined to describe a 'faulty' or 'disturbed' biological development or origin.
In the news
The article mentions hybrid dysgenesis in the context of Drosophila, where the movement of P-elements within the genome following hybridization causes deleterious effects in the offspring. It illustrates one of the biological challenges that can arise when distinct genetic lineages are combined.
Genetics and genomics of hybridization
Read the full article ↗Nature