Dictionary

rectus abdominis A large muscle in the front of the abdomen that assists in regular breathing movements, supports the muscles of the spine while a person lifts something, and keeps the intestines and other abdominal organs in place.

rectus See rectus abdominis.

rectum The last 6 to 8 inches of the large intestine. The rectum stores solid waste until it leaves the body through the anus.

rectouterine pouch See pouch of Douglas.

rectal exam, digital See digital rectal exam.

rectal cancer See cancer, rectal.

rectal 1 Having to do with the rectum. 2 Informally, digital rectal exam.

recrudescence Reappearance, as of a rash or arthritis.

Recombivax-HB A vaccine that stimulates the body’s immune system to produce antibodies against the hepatitis B virus. See also hepatitis B; hepatitis B immunization.

recombination The trading of fragments of genetic material between chromosomes before the egg and sperm cells are created. Key features of recombination include the point-to-point association of paired chromosomes (synapsis), followed by the visible exchange of segments (crossing over) at X-shaped crosspoints (chiasmata). Recombination is the principal way of creating genetic diversity between generations. Recombination…

recombinant DNA technology A series of procedures that are used to join together (recombine) DNA segments. A recombinant DNA molecule is constructed from segments of two or more different DNA molecules. Under certain conditions, a recombinant DNA molecule can enter a cell and replicate there, either on its own or after it has been integrated…

recombinant DNA molecules A combination of DNA molecules of different origin that are joined using recombinant DNA technology.