vitellogenin

noun

vi·​tel·​lo·​gen·​in vī-ˌte-lō-ˈje-nən How to pronounce vitellogenin (audio)
: a precursor protein of egg yolk normally in the blood or hemolymph only of females that is used as a biomarker in vertebrates of exposure to environmental estrogens which stimulate elevated levels in males as well as females

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Researchers found high levels of vitellogenin—a protein involved in producing egg yolk—in many smallmouth bass. National Geographic, 3 Feb. 2016

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

Word History

Etymology

probably from vitellogenesis + -in entry 1

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vitellogenin was in 1969

Dictionary Entries Near vitellogenin

Cite this Entry

“Vitellogenin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vitellogenin. Accessed 2 Jun. 2023.

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