Ortholog
Definition
An ortholog is a gene in different species that evolved from a common ancestral gene and often performs a similar biological function.
Correct Scientific Usage
Researchers use orthologs to study conserved biological processes across species. Scientists recognize that while orthologs often share function, species-specific differences can affect how genes operate.
Common Misunderstandings
Orthologous genes are often assumed to function identically across species, even though differences in regulation, expression, or biological context can lead to different outcomes. A gene’s function in mice does not guarantee identical function in humans.
Why It Matters
Claims about cross-species relevance frequently rely on orthology. Understanding its limits helps explain why animal findings don’t always predict human responses.
References
- Comparative transcriptomics in human and mouse, Nature Reviews Genetics
- Functional and evolutionary implications of gene orthology, Nature Reviews Genetics
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