transgenic
trans-JEN-ik
/trænzˈdʒɛnɪk/
Relating to an organism that contains genetic material into which DNA from an unrelated organism has been artificially introduced.
Specifically refers to the movement of genes across species boundaries, unlike simple selective breeding.
The story behind the word. Coined in the early 1980s, the word combines the Latin 'trans' (across) with 'genic' (relating to genes). It perfectly describes the 'crossing' of genetic borders that nature rarely permits on its own.
Word relationships
- genetically modified: A broader term that includes any genetic change, whereas transgenic specifically implies foreign DNA.
- wild-type: Refers to the typical form of an organism as it occurs in nature.
Commonly confused with
- cisgenic: Cisgenic involves genes from the same or closely related species; transgenic involves unrelated species.
Word family
- transgenesis (noun): The process of introducing an exogenous gene into a living organism.
Collocations
- transgenic plants
- transgenic technology
- transgenic model
Example sentences
- "The development of transgenic crops has sparked intense debate regarding biodiversity and food safety." Scientific reporting on agricultural breakthroughs.
- "Transgenic mice are often used in laboratories to study the effects of specific human genes on disease progression." Academic discussion on medical research.
Memory hook
Think of a 'trans-continental' flight carrying 'genes' from one country (species) to another. Across the species line.
When not to use
Do not use for organisms modified using their own DNA (cisgenic) or for traditional hybrids.
Fun facts
- The first transgenic animal was a mouse created in 1974 by Rudolf Jaenisch.
Related words
Explore more words
genetic, biotechnology, zoonotic, transnational, congenital, transcendent
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