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Definition

noun

The formation of a normal structure or organ in place of another at an abnormal site, as caused by the expression of a mutated hox gene.

Supplement

An example is the formation of a leg from the head of a fruit fly in stead of the expected antenna. This is caused by a loss of function mutation in antennapedia hox gene.

Related forms: homeotic (adjective), homeotically (adverb).

Also called: homeotic transformation

See also: homeotic mutation, hox gene.