alleles

[/əˈliːlz/]
nounpl: alleles
alelos
1. Alternative forms of a gene that occupy the same position (locus) on homologous chromosomes and code for different traits or variations of the same trait
The alleles for eye color determine whether a person has blue or brown eyes.
Os alelos para a cor dos olhos determinam se uma pessoa tem olhos azuis ou castanhos.
2. In genetics, one of two or more versions of a DNA sequence at a specific chromosomal location
Each parent contributes one allele for each gene to their offspring.
Cada progenitor contribui um alelo para cada gene à sua descendência.
This is a technical scientific term used universally in genetics education and research across both Brazil and Portugal. It appears in educational curricula starting at the high school level and is fundamental to understanding inheritance patterns and evolution. The term is not colloquial and is used exclusively in academic and scientific contexts.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
gene variantsallelic formsgenetic variants

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
alelos
Standard term used in genetics textbooks and scientific literature
Portugal
alelos
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; technical/scientific term universally used
USA
alleles
Standard scientific terminology in English-speaking genetics education

Related Words

geneschromosomesgeneticshereditydominantrecessivehomozygousheterozygous
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