What does multigenic mean?
Multigenic is a genetics term describing a trait, condition, or biological mechanism influenced by more than one gene. Such characteristics do not follow a simple pattern in which a single gene entirely determines the outcome. Instead, the presence and activity of several genes, together with environmental and other biological factors, can contribute to the result. Human height is a familiar example, while numerous inherited disorders also have a multigenic basis. The term is used in genetics, medicine, genomics, and biological research, where it helps distinguish conditions influenced by multiple genetic factors from monogenic conditions linked to one gene. “Multigenic” is closely related in meaning to “polygenic,” but its wording makes the involvement of several genes especially explicit.
adjectiveIn genetics, relating to or involving the combined effects of multiple genes. A multigenic trait or disorder is influenced by variants in more than one gene.
- Relating to a characteristic or condition influenced by multiple genes.
"The researchers concluded that the condition had a multigenic basis."
"Height in humans is a classic example of a multigenic trait."
"The team used a genome-wide study to identify the multigenic basis of the disease."
A multigenic trait is not the work of one gene alone, but the combined influence of several.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does multigenic come from?
“Multigenic” combines the Latin-derived prefix multi-, meaning “many,” with the element genic, associated with genes and genetics. The genetic terminology ultimately derives from Greek genos, meaning “race,” “kind,” or “origin.” The compound follows the established genetic pattern represented by related terms such as “monogenic” and “polygenic.”
Related word forms
How multigenic is actually used
This is a specialized term used chiefly in genetics, medicine, and biology. It is broadly similar to “polygenic,” though “multigenic” places explicit emphasis on the involvement of multiple genes. The opposite is “monogenic,” meaning determined by one gene.