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Definition of Polymorphic

Polymorphic: Pertaining to a polymorphism, a variation in the DNA that is too common to be due merely to new mutation. A polymorphism must have a frequency of at least 1% in the population.

Examples of polymorphic genes include those for sickle cell disease, thalassemia and G6PD deficiency. These genes are widely believed to offer an advantage against malaria.


Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2001 11:33:00 AM

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