Definition of Lethal gene, zygotic
Lethal gene, zygotic: A gene that is fatal for the zygote, the cell formed by the union of a sperm and an egg. The zygote would normally develop into an embryo, as instructed by the genetic material within the unified cell. However, a zygotic lethal gene kills prenatal development at its earliest point. A zygotic lethal gene is a mutated version of a normal gene that is essential to the survival of the zygote.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7753
Last Editorial Review: 3/30/2012
Drug Medical Dictionary of Terms by Letter
Medical Dictionary Term:
Women's Health
Find out what women really need.
Updated & New
