eksogene

Eksogene is a term occasionally used in genetics and bioethics discourse to denote a gene or genetic element that originates outside the host organism and is introduced into its genome or cellular machinery. In mainstream molecular genetics, the more common terms are exogenous gene or transgene; eksogene is less standard and is sometimes used in speculative biology or niche glossaries to emphasize external origin.

Origins may be from another species (xenogene), from synthetic design, or from modified versions of existing sequences. The eksogene is typically integrated into the host genome or maintained episomally and expressed under regulatory elements such as promoters and enhancers. Delivery methods can include viral vectors, plasmids, or genome editing tools that insert the eksogene at a target locus.

Functionality depends on the product encoded by the eksogene, which may be a protein, non-coding RNA, or regulatory element. The expression level is governed by promoters, regulatory sequences, and host cellular context. Expression can be constitutive or inducible and may be subject to post-transcriptional control.

Applications span basic research, gene therapy, agricultural biotechnology, and model organisms. Eksogenes enable study of gene function, disease models, and therapeutic approaches but raise safety, regulatory, and ethical considerations, including off-target effects and ecological impact.

See also exogenous gene, transgene, xenogene, gene therapy. Note: The term eksogene is not widely standardized and may vary in definition across sources.