genetic marker

noun

: a readily recognizable genetic trait, gene, DNA segment, or gene product used for identification especially when closely linked to a trait or genetic material that is difficult to identify

Examples of genetic marker in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web So when remains are found, there’s nothing to match them to—unless the missing person or a very close relative (who shares enough genetic markers for a partial match) happens to be in the FBI’s criminal DNA database, the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). Erika Engelhaupt, Scientific American, 18 Oct. 2023 However, purebred owners can also benefit from doggie DNA tests as those specifically created for purebred pups can not only validate purebred status but also share more insight into genetic markers, including potential hereditary diseases. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 3 May 2023 As the genetic markers used in matching are inherited, donors are most likely to match someone who shares the same ethnic background. Mike Hutton, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2023 That, according to the film, is because of two crucial genetic markers that were taken off the test so that they could be used in a potential Lyme vaccine (the development of which has languished for 20 years). Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 9 May 2023 Spradley has been trying to address the need for better comparative data by documenting differences in bone structure and genetic markers of ancestry for immigrants of Central American origin who make up most of the fatalities in South Texas. Ananda Rose, Scientific American, 1 June 2015 People with certain genetic markers might take better to one type of cancer treatment over another, for instance. Marin Wolf, Dallas News, 14 Apr. 2023 Biological markers that help predict certain kinds of cancer might be more accurate in people from particular parts of the globe, for example, and a genetic marker that helps gauge a person’s risk of coronary heart disease may be vastly underestimating the risk in Black people. Byrodrigo Pérez Ortega, science.org, 10 May 2023 Read More: What Happens When Anxiety Turns to Anger Going by Genes Researchers had already discovered many of the genetic markers in the test. Matt Hrodey, Discover Magazine, 13 Mar. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'genetic marker.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1932, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of genetic marker was in 1932

Dictionary Entries Near genetic marker

Cite this Entry

“Genetic marker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/genetic%20marker. Accessed 7 Dec. 2023.

Medical Definition

genetic marker

noun
: a readily recognizable genetic trait, gene, DNA segment, or gene product used for identification purposes especially when closely linked to a trait or to genetic material that is difficult to identify

called also marker

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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