Dictionary

gland, sudoriferous See gland, sweat.

gland, sweat A small tubular gland that is situated in the subcutaneous tissue within and under the skin. Sweat glands discharge sweat through tiny openings in the surface of the skin. The sweat itself is a transparent, colorless, acidic fluid that contains some fatty acids and mineral matter. Also known as sudoriferous gland.

genome, mitochondrial The sum of the genetic information contained in the chromosome of the mitochondrion, a structure located in the cytoplasm outside the nucleus of the cell. The mitochondrial genome is composed of mitochondrial DNA (mDNA), a double-stranded circular molecule that contains a limited number of genes. During fertilization, mDNA is transmitted only by the…

genome, nuclear See genome, chromosomal.

genomic library A collection of clones that is made from a set of randomly generated overlapping DNA fragments and that represents the entire genome of an organism. Also known as clone bank.

genomics The scientific study of the genome, the complete genetic information contained within an organism. See also genome.

genotype The genetic constitution (genome) of a cell, an individual, or an organism. The genotype is distinct from the expressed features, or phenotype, of the cell, individual, or organism. The genotype of a person is that person’s genetic makeup. It can pertain to all genes or to a specific gene.

genu The Latin word for knee, as in genu recurvatum (hyperextension of the knee), genu valgum (knock knee), and genu varum (bowleg). See knee.

GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease.

germ cell Either the egg or the sperm cell; a reproductive cell. Each mature germ cell is haploid, meaning that it has a single set of 23 chromosomes containing half the usual amount of DNA and half the usual number of genes. Except for the egg and the sperm, most cells in the human body…

germ cell tumor A tumor that arises from a germ cell. A germ cell tumor may arise within the gonads (in the ovary or testis). Most testicular tumors, in fact, are germ cell tumors. Germ cell tumors also may arise in extragonadal sites, reflecting the fact that germ cells travel to diverse areas of the…

German measles See rubella.