Polygenic

Polygenic refers to a trait that is controlled by a group of non-allelic genes. This term is often used in genetics to describe a characteristic that is influenced by more than one gene. Examples of polygenic traits include skin color, height, and body mass index (BMI).

Overview[edit | edit source]

Polygenic traits are determined by the combined effects of multiple genes. These traits often show a wide range of phenotypes, or physical expressions, because they are influenced by the environment as well as by genes. This is in contrast to Mendelian traits, which are controlled by a single gene and typically show a simple pattern of inheritance.

Genetics of Polygenic Traits[edit | edit source]

The genes that contribute to polygenic traits are called quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Each QTL contributes a small amount to the overall phenotype. The combined effect of these QTLs, along with environmental influences, determines the final phenotype.

Polygenic traits often follow a normal distribution in populations, with most individuals showing an intermediate phenotype and fewer individuals showing extreme phenotypes. This is known as the bell curve.

Examples of Polygenic Traits[edit | edit source]

Many common traits are polygenic, including:

Height: This is influenced by many genes, each of which contributes a small amount to overall height.
Skin color: This is determined by multiple genes that control the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Body mass index (BMI): This is influenced by genes that control metabolism, appetite, and other factors.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Polygenic Resources
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