complementation

noun

com·​ple·​men·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-plə-(ˌ)men-ˈtā-shən 

-mən-

1

: the operation of determining the complement of a mathematical set

2

: production of normal phenotype in an individual heterozygous for two closely related mutations with one on each homologous chromosome and at a slightly different position

Examples of complementation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Interspecies blastocyst complementation is a method that could help create human organs in animals. —Study Summaries, Scientific American, 17 May 2023

Though the papers overlap to a great extent, there are subtle differences which result in complementation. —Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 9 July 2011

The details of complementation of two alleles matter a great deal to the bottom line, and the concept of hybrid vigor has percolated out to the general public, with the more informed being cognizant of heterozygosity. —Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 17 Nov. 2010

Since two lineages will likely have different deleterious alleles, crossing them will result in immediate complementation and masking of the deleterious alleles in heterozygote state. —Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 27 July 2010

Word History

Etymology

complement entry 2 + -ation

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

complementation

noun

com·​ple·​men·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-plə-(ˌ)men-ˈtā-shən, -mən- 

1

: the formation of neutral colors from complementary colors

2

: production of normal phenotype in an individual heterozygous for two closely related mutations with one on each homologous chromosome and at a slightly different position