functional DNA
[ˈfʌŋkʃənəl ˈdiːɛnˈeɪ]
noun
DNA funcional
1. Segments of DNA that code for proteins or have regulatory functions in gene expression and cellular processes
Functional DNA includes protein-coding genes and regulatory sequences that control gene expression.
O DNA funcional inclui genes que codificam proteínas e sequências regulatórias que controlam a expressão gênica.
2. DNA sequences that produce a measurable biological effect or phenotype in an organism
Researchers identified functional DNA regions responsible for disease resistance in plants.
Os pesquisadores identificaram regiões de DNA funcional responsáveis pela resistência a doenças em plantas.
3. In genomics, DNA that performs a specific biological role, as opposed to non-coding or 'junk' DNA
The ENCODE project revealed that much of what was once considered junk DNA is actually functional DNA.
O projeto ENCODE revelou que muito do que antes era considerado DNA lixo é na verdade DNA funcional.
This is a technical scientific term used consistently across both Brazilian Portuguese and European Portuguese scientific communities. In the USA and Brazil, the term gained prominence after major genomic projects like ENCODE and the Human Genome Project, which redefined understanding of what constitutes 'functional' versus 'non-functional' DNA segments. It reflects the evolution of molecular biology understanding in both countries.
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