morphogen

noun

mor·​pho·​gen ˈmȯr-fə-jən How to pronounce morphogen (audio)
-ˌjen
: a diffusible chemical substance that exerts control over morphogenesis especially by forming a gradient in concentration

Examples of morphogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Each cell in the sheet is programmed to make three pairs of molecules — one pair for each morphogen. Quanta Magazine, 5 Apr. 2018 Signaling molecules called morphogens then diffuse through the embryonic tissues, eventually defining the formation of body parts. Wired, 24 Mar. 2019

Word History

First Known Use

1950, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of morphogen was in 1950

Dictionary Entries Near morphogen

Cite this Entry

“Morphogen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/morphogen. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

morphogen

noun
mor·​pho·​gen ˈmȯr-fə-jən, -ˌjen How to pronounce morphogen (audio)
: a diffusible chemical substance that exerts control over morphogenesis especially by forming a gradient in concentration
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!