What are maternal-effect genes?

Key Concepts

Maternal-Effect Genes

Maternal-effect genes are genes expressed in the mother that influence the development of the offspring, regardless of the offspring's own genotype. These genes produce mRNA or proteins that are deposited in the egg during oogenesis, affecting early embryonic development. The phenotype of the offspring is thus determined by the maternal genotype, highlighting the importance of maternal contributions in genetics.

Gene Expression

Gene expression is the process by which information from a gene is used to synthesize functional gene products, typically proteins. In the context of maternal-effect genes, the mother's gene expression results in the production of molecules that are crucial for the initial stages of the embryo's development. Understanding gene expression is essential for grasping how maternal factors can shape offspring characteristics.

Developmental Biology

Developmental biology is the study of the processes by which organisms grow and develop. It encompasses the mechanisms of cell differentiation, morphogenesis, and the role of genetic and environmental factors in development. Maternal-effect genes are a key focus in developmental biology, as they illustrate how maternal contributions can direct the developmental pathways of the embryo.