Synonym(s)
- crossing over
- DNA recombination
- recombination, genetic
Definition(s)
- The natural process of breaking and rejoining DNA strands to produce new combinations of genes and, thus, generate genetic variation. Gene crossover during meiosis.
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Definition from: Office of Rare Diseases
at the National Institutes of Health
- The exchange of a segment of DNA between two homologous chromosomes during meiosis leading to a novel combination of genetic material in the offspring.
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Definition from: GeneTests
from the University of Washington and the National Center for Biotechnology Information
- Crossing over is the swapping of genetic material that occurs in the germ line. During the formation of egg and sperm cells, also known as meiosis, paired chromosomes from each parent align so that similar DNA sequences from the paired chromosomes cross over one another. Crossing over results in a shuffling of genetic material and is an important cause of the genetic variation seen among offspring.
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Definition from: Talking Glossary of Genetic Terms from the National Human Genome Research Institute
See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
