Oligogene

Oligogene is a term used in genetics to describe a type of gene that has a minor influence on the phenotype of an organism. Unlike monogenic traits, which are determined by a single gene, oligogenic traits are influenced by multiple genes, each contributing a small effect. This makes the inheritance patterns of oligogenic traits more complex and difficult to predict.

Definition

The term "oligogene" is derived from the Greek words "oligos", meaning "few", and "gene", meaning "to give birth to". In the context of genetics, an oligogene is one of a small number of genes that collectively influence a particular trait. This is in contrast to polygenic traits, which are influenced by a large number of genes, and monogenic traits, which are determined by a single gene.

Characteristics

Oligogenes are typically involved in the determination of complex traits, such as height, weight, and intelligence. These traits are influenced by multiple genes, each contributing a small effect. The combined effect of these genes results in a continuous distribution of phenotypes, rather than the discrete phenotypes seen in monogenic traits.

Oligogenes can also interact with each other and with environmental factors to influence the phenotype of an organism. This interaction, known as gene-environment interaction, can further complicate the inheritance patterns of oligogenic traits.

Examples

Examples of oligogenic traits include many common diseases, such as diabetes, asthma, and heart disease. These diseases are influenced by a small number of genes, each contributing a small effect. The combined effect of these genes, along with environmental factors, determines the risk of developing the disease.

Research

Research into oligogenes is a major focus of genetic epidemiology, which seeks to understand the genetic basis of complex diseases. This research can help to identify the genes involved in these diseases, and to develop new treatments and prevention strategies.

See also

• Genetics
• Gene
• Phenotype
• Monogenic trait
• Polygenic trait
• Gene-environment interaction
• Genetic epidemiology