cDNA
noun
ˈsē-ˌdē-(ˌ)en-ˈā 
ˌsē-
: a DNA that is complementary to a given RNA which serves as a template for synthesis of the DNA in the presence of reverse transcriptase
Examples of cDNA in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In 1985, George Kuo invented that cloning strategy by reverse transcribing mRNA from NANBH positive serum into cDNA.
—
William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
The ruling that cDNA is potentially patentable allows companies to still reap financial rewards from isolating new genes.
—Lisa Raffensperger, Discover Magazine, 14 June 2013
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2023
The ruling that cDNA is potentially patentable allows companies to still reap financial rewards from isolating new genes.
—Lisa Raffensperger, Discover Magazine, 14 June 2013
Cite this Entry
“CDNA.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cDNA. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
cDNA
noun
: a DNA that is complementary to a given RNA which serves as a template for synthesis of the DNA in the presence of reverse transcriptase
called also complementary DNA
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share