Noun. /ree-kahm-buh-NAY-shuhn/
by Erick Figueroa-Ildefonso
What does it mean?
In genetics, recombination is the process by which two pieces of DNA are broken and rearranged exchanging genetic material with each other. A notable example of recombination takes place during meiosis. This process creates genetic diversity which is reflected in differences in the DNA sequences of different organisms.
How do I use it in a sentence?
“When paternal and maternal chromosomes pair during meiosis, recombination produces new combinations of chromosome fragments.”
Chromosomes from both parents showing exchanged regions after a recombination event during meiosis.
Image generated with Biorender.
Etymology
Formed within English. Re(prefix) – combination (noun).
History of usage
The earliest known use of the word is from 1783 .in T. Bergman’s Ess. Usefulness Chemistry.
Related terms
Fields of study in which this word is commonly used
Genetics, evolution.
