Xenogène

Xenogène is a term used in biology and genetics to refer to genetic material that originates from a different species. This can occur through various mechanisms, including horizontal gene transfer, viral transduction, or laboratory-induced genetic modification. When a gene from one organism is introduced into the genome of another, it is considered xenogeneic.

The study of xenogenes is important for understanding evolutionary processes and the spread of genetic information across species boundaries. It also plays a crucial role in biotechnology and genetic engineering. For example, the introduction of xenogenes can be used to confer desirable traits to organisms, such as disease resistance in plants or the production of therapeutic proteins in bacteria.

However, the presence of xenogenes can also raise concerns. In the context of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), regulatory bodies often assess the potential risks associated with the introduction of foreign DNA. These risks can include unintended effects on the recipient organism or the environment, as well as potential allergenic properties of the gene products. Research into the stability and expression of xenogenes within a new host is an ongoing area of scientific investigation.