autozygous

Autozygous refers to the condition in genetics where an organism inherits identical alleles for a particular gene from both parents due to descent from a common ancestor. This occurs when two copies of the same gene segment are inherited from the same lineage, rather than from different parental lines. The term is derived from the Greek words *autos* (self) and *zygos* (yoke or pair), indicating that the alleles are paired within the same individual.

Autozygosity often arises in populations where inbreeding is common, such as in small, isolated groups or among closely related individuals. It can lead to an increased likelihood of expressing recessive traits, as identical alleles may both contribute to the phenotype. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in genetic studies, conservation biology, and human genetics, where it can influence disease susceptibility and evolutionary patterns.

The degree of autozygosity can be measured using genetic markers, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), to identify regions of the genome where identical-by-descent (IBD) segments occur. High autozygosity may indicate recent consanguinity or a bottleneck event in a population’s history. While autozygosity can have negative effects, such as increased homozygosity for deleterious mutations, it can also preserve advantageous traits within a lineage.

In human genetics, autozygous regions are often studied to trace ancestry and identify genetic disorders linked to inbreeding. Tools like genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and pedigree analysis help researchers map autozygous segments and their implications for health and heredity. Understanding autozygosity is crucial for genetic counseling, population genetics, and the preservation of genetic diversity in both natural and managed populations.