Definition
noun
A segmentation gene whose expression subdivides the embryo into a series of stripes, and sets the boundaries of the parasegments. It also regulates the subsequent expression of segment polarity genes.
Supplement
These genes are sequentially expressed next to the gap genes and before the segment polarity genes. In fact, the gene products of gap genes, together with those of maternal genes, activate pair-rule genes.
Examples of pair-rule genes are: even-skipped, hairy, runt, fushi-tarazu, odd-skipped, paired, odd-paired, sloppy-paired, and Tenascin major. Defect in any of these genes results in missing pattern elements in alternate segments. For instance, defective even-skipped gene results in even-numbered parasegments missing in the body pattern of the Drosophila larva.
See also: gap gene, parasegment, segmentation gene.
Dictionary > Pair-rule gene
You will also like...
A Balanced Diet – Minerals and Proteins
Proteins and minerals can be derived from various dietary sources. They are essential for the proper growth and developm..
Mātauranga Māori and Science
Mātauranga Māori is the living knowledge system of the indigenous people of New Zealand, including the relationships t..
Human Reproduction and Fertilization
For human species to obviate extinction, reproductive mature adults should be producing viable offspring in order to con..
Freshwater Communities & Lentic Waters
Lentic or still water communities can vary greatly in appearance -- from a small temporary puddle to a large lake. The s..
Control of Growth & Development
Control of Growth & Development tutorials look at how the genetic makeup determines the biological processes on a da..
Plant Water Regulation
Plants need to regulate water in order to stay upright and structurally stable. Find out the different evolutionary adap..