Microvariant

A microvariant is a small variation in a biological sequence, typically a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) or a short insertion/deletion (indel). These variations are often found in non-coding regions of the genome and can have significant implications for gene expression and protein function. Microvariants are prevalent in the human population, with estimates suggesting that each person carries around 3 million such variations.

Microvariants can arise through various mechanisms, including mutation, recombination, and gene conversion. They are often studied in the context of genetic diseases, where specific microvariants may contribute to disease susceptibility or severity. Additionally, microvariants have been linked to differences in drug response, disease risk, and even individual traits such as height and eye color.

The study of microvariants is a rapidly evolving field, with advancements in sequencing technologies enabling the identification and analysis of these variations at an unprecedented scale. However, the functional significance of many microvariants remains unclear, and ongoing research is focused on understanding their role in health and disease.