lethal gene

noun Genetics.

a gene that under certain conditions causes the death of an organism.
Also called lethal factor, lethal mutation.

Origin of lethal gene

First recorded in 1935–40

Words nearby lethal gene

letha, lethal, lethal chamber, lethal dose, lethal factor, lethal gene, lethal midline granuloma, lethal mutation, lethargic, lethargic encephalitis, lethargize

Medical definitions for lethal mutation (1 of 2)

lethal mutation

n.

A mutant trait that leads to a phenotype incapable of effective reproduction.

Medical definitions for lethal mutation (2 of 2)

lethal gene

n.

A gene whose expression results in the death of the organism.