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Epistasisrefers to genetic interactions in which the mutation of one gene masks the phenotypic effects of a mutation at another locus.Answers.comSystematic analysis of these epistatic interactions can provide insight into the structure and function of genetic pathways. By examining the phenotypes resulting from pairs of mutations we begin to understand how the function of these genes intersects. Genetic interactions are generally classified as either Positive/Alleviating or Negative/Aggravating. In the case of a positive epistatic interaction, the double mutant exhibits a phenotype which is neutral or improved relative to the phenotype of a single mutant Answers.com. This phenotypic response occurs when both genes lie within the same pathway. Conversely, negative interactions are characterized by an even stronger defect than would be expected in the case of two single mutations, and in the most extreme cases (synthetic sick/lethal) the double mutation is lethal. This aggravated phenotype arises when genes in compensatory pathways are both knocked out. High-throughput methods of analyzing these types of interactions have been useful in expanding our knowledge of genetic interactions. Synthetic genetic arrays (SGA), diploid based synthetic lethality analysis on microarrays (dSLAM), and epistatic miniarray profiles (E-MAP) are three important methods which have been developed for the systematic analysis and mapping of genetic interactions. This systematic approach to studying epistasis on a genome wide scale has significant implications for Functional_genomics. By identifying the negative and positive interactions between an unknown gene and a set genes within a known pathway, these methods can elucidate the function of previously uncharacterized genes within the context of a metabolic or developmental pathway.

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Related Questions

Is when one allele completely masks another?

This is called complete dominance, where one allele completely masks the expression of another allele in a heterozygous individual. The dominant allele is expressed phenotypically, while the recessive allele remains hidden.


What is an allele that always shows up in an organism's phenotype called - an allele that masks the other allele?

An allele that always shows up in an organism's phenotype and masks the expression of another allele is called dominant. Dominant alleles are always expressed, even when paired with a recessive allele.


What type of allele masks the expression of the recessive allele and is therefore expressed in the heterozygous?

A dominant allele will mask the prsence of a recssive allele


When two alleles overshadows the other what is demonstrated?

When one allele completely masks the expression of another allele at the same locus in a heterozygote, it is known as complete dominance. In this case, the dominant allele is expressed in the phenotype while the recessive allele is not observable.


When allele of a gene masks the presence of the other allele what form can be seen in the phenotype?

When one allele for a particular trait masks or overrides another allele for a trait, it is called dominance. The allele that is masked is called the recessive allele. The allele that is dominant will determine the phenotype.


When one allele of a gene masks the presence of the allele what form can be seen in the phenotype?

When one allele for a particular trait masks or overrides another allele for a trait, it is called dominance. The allele that is masked is called the recessive allele. The allele that is dominant will determine the phenotype.


When one allele shows dominance over another allele?

In cases of complete dominance, one allele, known as the dominant allele, masks the expression of the other allele, known as the recessive allele, in the heterozygous state. This results in only the dominant allele being expressed in the phenotype.


When does one allele alter another allele?

One allele can alter another allele through a process called epistasis, where the expression of one gene masks or modifies the expression of another gene at a different locus. This interaction can affect phenotypic traits, leading to variations in how traits are expressed. Additionally, certain alleles may exhibit dominance or recessiveness, where the dominant allele's effects overshadow those of the recessive allele. Overall, the interplay between alleles can significantly influence an organism's characteristics.


When one allele of a gene masks the presence of the other allele what form can seen in the phenotype?

When one allele for a particular trait masks or overrides another allele for a trait, it is called dominance. The allele that is masked is called the recessive allele. The allele that is dominant will determine the phenotype.


What one allele of a gene masks the presence of the other allele what form can be seen in the phenotype?

When one allele for a particular trait masks or overrides another allele for a trait, it is called dominance. The allele that is masked is called the recessive allele. The allele that is dominant will determine the phenotype.


What is the name given to an allele that masks another?

A dominant one


What is simple dominance?

Simple dominance is a concept in genetics where one allele (gene variant) masks the expression of another allele at the same locus. This results in the dominant allele being expressed phenotypically, while the recessive allele is not expressed. This type of inheritance pattern is common in traits like eye color or hair texture.