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Genetic Polymorphisms

Meaning

Genetic polymorphisms are common variations in the DNA sequence that exist among individuals within a population, where multiple forms of a gene, or alleles, are present at a specific locus. These variations, often single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), typically do not cause disease but significantly influence an individual’s unique physiological responses, including their metabolism of hormones or their sensitivity to various pharmacological agents. They are the molecular basis of biological individuality.