antisense

adjective

an·​ti·​sense ˈan-ˌtī-ˌsen(t)s How to pronounce antisense (audio)
ˈan-tē-
: having a sequence complementary to a segment of genetic material
specifically : of, being, relating to, or possessing a sequence of DNA or RNA that is complementary to and pairs with a specific messenger RNA blocking it from being translated into protein and serving to inhibit gene function
antisense drug therapy
antisense RNA
compare missense, nonsense

Word History

Etymology

anti- + nonsense

First Known Use

1977, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of antisense was in 1977

Dictionary Entries Near antisense

Cite this Entry

“Antisense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/antisense. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

antisense

adjective
an·​ti·​sense ˈan-ˌtī-ˌsens, ˈan-ti- How to pronounce antisense (audio)
: having a sequence complementary to a segment of genetic material
specifically : of, being, relating to, or possessing a sequence of DNA or RNA that is complementary to and pairs with a specific messenger RNA blocking it from being translated into protein and serving to inhibit gene function
antisense RNA
antisense drug therapy to inhibit malignant cell proliferation
antisense research
compare missense, nonsense
antisense noun
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