Dictionary

double helix The structure of DNA, in which two strands of DNA spiral about each other.

DOT Directly observed therapy.

dorsum The back or posterior side of a structure. Something that pertains to the dorsum is dorsal.

dopa-responsive dystonia A disease characterized by progressive difficulty in walking and in some cases by spasticity. Abbreviated DRD. DRD begins in childhood or adolescence. It can be successfully treated with drugs. Segawa dystonia is an important variant of DRD. Some scientists feel that DRD is not only rare but also rarely diagnosed because it mimics…

donor insemination See artificial insemination by donor.

donor The giver of a tissue or an organ, such as a blood donor or kidney donor.

dominant, X-linked See X-linked dominant.

dominant, autosomal See autosomal dominant.

dominant A genetic trait that is evident when only one copy of that gene for that trait is present. (As opposed to a recessive trait, which is usually expressed only when two copies of the gene for that trait are present.) Most dominant traits are due to genes located on the autosomes (the nonsex chromosomes)….

domain In biomedicine, a discrete portion of a protein that has its own function. The combination of domains in a single protein determines the overall function of the protein.

dolor Pain, one of the four classic signs of inflammation together with calor, rubor, and tumor (heat, redness, and swelling, respectively).

DOE Department of Energy, a US agency.